Residential Purchases and Sale
Buying or Selling your home is, in many case, the single most significant transaction you will make in your lifetime. For that reason alone, having an attorney to guide you through the process is a value that should not be overlooked. North Jersey and South Jersey differ slightly in some customary real estate procedures and costs. However, in both cases, an attorney should be consulted.
An attorney will be able to review the Contract of Sale and ensure favorable terms are include to protect your interest and limit your liability. While agreements between the parties may be discussed and even penciled into a Contract, without a properly drafted clause evidencing that agreement, you may not be safeguarded in the event of breach.
Many people mistakenly believe that there is no need for an attorney and that a realtor is sufficient to lead them through the process. While a transaction can commence and be completed without the assistance of counsel, and while many, many realtors who are extremely knowledgable and helpful, only an attorney is lawfully permitted to advise you on your legal implications. Moreover, an attorney's fee is not contingent on the transaction moving forward, and can therefore objectively represent your interest. Further, an attorney may be able to negotiate credits or advise if there are items contained on your closing disclosure that are improperly applied to you, potentially even saving you money.
Perhaps the most significant value of an attorney is the peace of mind it will bring to you. Both buying and selling your home can be extremely emotional. Often, there are bumps in the road that can increase those emotions. An attorney brings an objective legal perspective and can help focus on options and necessary steps to meet the transactions goal.