If you’ve recently decided to buy a home, you have one of the most exciting stages of your life coming up. You are probably thinking about new appliances, square footage, spacious bedrooms, and your new neighborhood… But there is one thing you need to make sure that you do not forget during this process – A real estate attorney.

In fact, in the state of Massachusetts, an attorney is required to preside over all real estate closings. While the attorney is not required to specialize in real estate, selecting a knowledgeable, experienced MA real estate attorney will lead to the best outcome and is highly recommended for the following reasons.

1. Provides Unrivaled Expertise

When you have a toothache, you go to the dentist. When you have a health problem… the doctor. Utilizing an attorney during your real estate transaction should be no different. You need a valuable expert on your side to assist you every step of the way.

Attorneys must obtain their degree from a school accredited by the American Bar Association, as well as pass the bar exam to get their license. Many MA real estate attorneys have years and years of hands-on experience in addition to their education. You can rest assured that with this kind of knowledge, they are well-prepared to handle your unique situation.

If you are unsure of which attorney you should use, your lender should have a list of approved attorneys that have been vetted by a third party. They can also make recommendations based on past experiences, but, ultimately, the decision is up to you.

2. Offers Protection From Legal Roadblocks

One thing is certain when it comes to real estate law – it isn’t very simple. Actually, it seems to be getting more and more complicated as time goes on. Real estate attorneys consider things like zoning issues, land use restrictions, environmental contamination, and so much more when assisting their clients.

Because they have knowledge of these pitfalls, they are able to help you avoid many of them. Considering today’s complex laws, it is more important than ever to secure a well-respected MA real estate attorney when completing a property transaction.

3. Verifies Necessary Property Records

This one is big! Licensed attorneys make sure you are getting the property you are paying for by verifying all necessary land records. Tracing home and land ownership can actually be quite confusing in Massachusetts. Properties must be searched using past owners’ names while comparing the property’s legal description.

Because this process is a bit complicated, it is best to use an experienced real estate attorney. They can verify critical facts and provide information to help you obtain title insurance. Also, if any challenging circumstances pop up along the way, they can give you a head’s up and help you handle them appropriately.

4. Assists You With Negotiations

Your real estate attorney has your best interests at heart. When buying a home, having a MA real estate attorney help you during the negotiations process can be extremely beneficial.

Emotions can often run high during a home purchase, but your attorney will be able to focus on the tasks at hand, making sure to effectively negotiate on your behalf. They will represent you during price and contract negotiations, as well as contingency negotiations. They will dive in and get the job done, making sure you get the best deal possible.

5. Provides You With Clarity and Advice

Many home buyers (especially first-time homebuyers) are unsure about the process of purchasing a home. It can often be confusing, intimidating, and frustrating. But your attorney will be there for you along the way, providing all the legal advice you may need.

Have a question about your purchase agreement, deed, closing documents, or anything else pertaining to your transaction? Your attorney has you covered!

6. Cost Effectiveness

Sometimes people think they can’t afford an attorney. But when you are buying a home, you really can’t afford NOT to hire an attorney.

Because they review contracts, negotiate on your behalf, ensure that your deed is properly recorded, and deal with any other issues that may arise, a MA real estate attorney does not end up costing nearly as much as one might think.

In fact, there is NO upfront retainer collected from the homebuyer. All necessary fees are collected at closing and are typically financed into the mortgage. No need to stress about stretching your pocketbook too thin – the process is actually very easy and cost-effective.

7. Saves Time and Helps Avoid Unnecessary Stress

Buying a home can be stressful, not to mention it can take up a lot of your time. You don’t want to waste any more valuable time trying to figure out all the tricky details of your purchase. Avoid emotional exhaustion by letting a trustworthy attorney handle it all.

8. Helps You Through Unexpected Obstacles

Did you know that unexpected obstacles delay around 25% of home sales? Many of these types of issues are well beyond your real estate agent’s scope of expertise.

This is where your attorney comes in and saves the day! They are there to closely monitor every detail of your deal, guiding you through any rocky situations. Many legal nightmares have been avoided with the help of a real estate attorney.

9. Ensures Document Accuracy

When it comes to your transaction documents, you want to make sure all i’s have been dotted and all t’s have been crossed. Even minor mistakes can come back to haunt home buyers.

Your attorney will inspect your purchase and sales agreement, title, closing documents, and other records for errors. They will be there to make sure that the “sailing” is as smooth as possible.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home can be time-consuming, complicated, and sometimes even risky. When you hire a reliable MA real estate attorney, these frustrations can be greatly reduced… Protect yourself and your investment by having the right attorney on your side!

Flynn Law Title & Escrow would love to help you reach for your dream, assisting you through every unique detail of your real estate transaction – Contact us today to discuss your options.