Filter by

star star star star star
30 Jun, 2023 by Theresa rohr
Rick Laubenstein helped my family with an ongoing real estate issue/sale recently and we are so happy we chose this firm because of him. He was thorough, prompt and professional. We had never worked closely with a lawyer like this, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Rick or anyone at this firm for their real estate needs.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2023 by Jeffrey franckowiak
Paul really took the time to help me. I had a legal question and wasn’t sure where to start. He took the time to reach out to everyone in his office and was able to refer me to the perfect lawyer for my situation. Thanks again!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jul, 2021 by Kristian “princess” serrano
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
30 Jun, 2023 by Theresa rohr
Rick Laubenstein helped my family with an ongoing real estate issue/sale recently and we are so happy we chose this firm because of him. He was thorough, prompt and professional. We had never worked closely with a lawyer like this, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Rick or anyone at this firm for their real estate needs.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2023 by Jeffrey franckowiak
Paul really took the time to help me. I had a legal question and wasn’t sure where to start. He took the time to reach out to everyone in his office and was able to refer me to the perfect lawyer for my situation. Thanks again!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jul, 2021 by Kristian “princess” serrano
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
01 Feb, 2024 by Gabriela
Daniel is a great lawyer and a great person. He helped me during a difficult time and did a fantastic job. I highly recommend him. Thank you so much!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Aug, 2023 by Michael hurt
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Sep, 2021 by Sharon wendt
Wayne was referred to my by a friend. My current lawyer at the time was doing nothing to help me or return any of my phone calls. I was extremely stressed out. Wayne was able to resolve my estate issues all during Covid-19 in full force. I owe Wayne a great deal for helping me and being very compassionate to my feelings and situation. Wayne and his staff and Associates work as a team will definitely come through for you.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
09 May, 2022 by Bluecomp321
Tom and his assistant were very helpful in setting up my will and other estate planning documents.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2021 by Bill ginger
Fairly priced kind considerate great attorney
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2021 by John danegelis
The Best Attorney around
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Nov, 2017 by Gina
I've worked with John Mantas and his partner, John Skoubis on several real estate closings and they were both fantastic! Both of them are very responsive, thorough, professional, and knowledgeable.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
John helped me on a new business venture. As a new entrepreneur, he has become my go-to for business/real-estate matters. I trust him - thanks for the peace of mind, John.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
19 Oct, 2020 by John milano sr
Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Apr, 2020 by David morando
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
30 Apr, 2016 by Justine
My husband and I have hired Larry several times over the years for our real estate sales and purchases. The most recent transaction was the purchase of our home which was new construction. New construction can be complex and requires a lot of details. Larry was wonderful and put a lot of time and effort into making sure we had what we needed to feel safe and confident with our new home! Larry has been a real estate attorney for many years and his expertise has always been greatly appreciated. We have recommended him to many of our friends and family members and they too have always been more than satisfied with his level of legal care and service. Thank you Larry!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2016 by Donna
I've been using Larry Whitney as my real estate lawyer for property closings for 20+ years, both for my personal and investment properties . I have also referred him to many others and all have had a similar experience as mine. His attention to detail and knowledge of the closing process is impressive. He frequently finds mistakes that the other lawyer makes and points them out - which ultimately saves me money every time! He is very accessible at all times of day and he is always happy to answer questions and explain things that I don't understand. I highly recommend Larry for anyone who needs an attorney (not just for real estate) because he is extremely thorough, honest, reliable and pleasant to work with.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
18 Dec, 2010 by Alex
My business was on the brink of collapse. Through Mr. Reveliotis' advice, I was able to save thousands of dollars in real estate tax enabling my business to help sustain its current market position and to make necessary capital improvements.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
07 Sep, 2016 by Jim
Handled my real estate closing with terrific service, follow up - never felt in the dark about anything. Extremely satisfied. Personable and speaks plain english - no legal-ese!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
13 Nov, 2022 by F ha
He's the best and his assistant Sonia is outstanding
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Jun, 2024 by Mageg melkonyan
Perfect work. Helped us get paperwork quickly . Dmitri knows what he’s doing. 100% recommend
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Mar, 2024 by Galina munteanu
I worked with, Chicago Legal Solution, on the procurement of the house. I want to thank them for their responsiveness, professionalism and explanations. The guys know their job and are always punctual in every stage of the work. I highly recommend them.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Dec, 2023 by James flammang
I had a pleasant experience working with this legal firm. They were prompt and professional and I will highly recommend them to anyone looking for honest and trustworthy individuals.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Aug, 2024 by Nick quebbeman
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2024 by Steven kessel
Really great all round and throughout the process. First time buyer so really needed detailed explanation at multiple stages and I always got what I needed and was . Very thorough during the closing process in helping me to understand everything. Highly recommend.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 May, 2024 by Victor morano
Fantastic professional service. Would recommend you to anyone
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2024 by Mahtab geranbaha
I am grateful with all my heart to my dear lawyer Ms. Sofia, who has a golden experience in the immigration department and was able to receive my residence permit in a very short period of time. Ms. Sofia, my respected lawyer, I am very happy to know you and it was a great blessing for me to become your client. I hope you are always happy and healthy and I always wish you the best. At the same time, I would like to thank Ms. Maryam Nia paralegal, dear Ms. Sofia, who helped me a lot and answered my questions very kindly. I thank you both again and I know you as one of the best lawyers and paralegals in the city of Chicago. 🙏❤️
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Zaya zya
What I can say !! We hired Sofia for my father’s case, which was very very complicated , Since 2015 until now Sofia never gave up on us.. She took all the possible steps and ways to make sure my father will united with us again. Sofia doesn’t give up on cases such as my father’s case , she will take it to high level. We can’t stop thanking her for all she did for us .. we can’t wait to celebrate. Christmas with Dad again. All love and respect for this wonderful woman.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Sep, 2024 by Marina odisho
Avilova Law, LLC is one the best Lawyers in town and the her assistant who’s is Meryam is amazing. Sofia Avilova took my case and she was working very hard to get my paperwork soon. I would highly recommend this Law office to who ever is seeking to get a paperwork inside the USA country
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Jun, 2024 by Iliana gonzalez
I have known and worked closely with Frank Ponticelli for over eight years. He was my attorney on the purchase of my first home and coached me on negotiating terms in the purchase. I've also sought his counsel on matters pertaining to disrespectful neighbor issues and employment contracts. He encouraged and empowered me to ask thoughtful questions and has been instrumental in the development of my negotiation skills and confidence. He is transparent, clear and a straight shooter. He also has incredibly fair fees for the wide array of services he provides.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Apr, 2024 by Yanina ziya
It's always a pleasure working with Frank Ponticelli. The best attorney, super knowledgeable, very professional in helping his clients. He is an amazing attorney and I would strongly recommend him.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Oct, 2021 by Jack blandin
Frank was our real estate attorney for our recent short sale purchase in Park Ridge. Since we put in a short sale offer, it was a long process that lasted almost 5 months from the initial offer to the closing date. Throughout the 5 months, Frank and his staff were helpful and responsive whenever we had questions or asked for updates. This was particularly important to us since we were first time home buyers. Also, Frank was more than fair when determining his fee for services and didn’t charge us extra despite the additional work required for a short sale. I highly recommend Frank for anyone looking for a local real estate attorney.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2023 by Brian murphy
One of the Best Lawyers and CPA's that I've used. I often have very complicated transactions with a lot of moving parts, but Al and his team are always communicative and ready to help. I highly recommend them if value honest advice, quality service, and responsiveness.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
31 Aug, 2024 by Melissa walters
We are so grateful that Steve represented us during the sale of our home. He was prepared, thoughtful, diligent, and kind, especially during some last-minute complications. We would not hesitate to work with him again!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Rae gray
Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2024 by Carla mckeand
I used Griffin to assist in the buying and selling of 2 properties. He was completely professional, proactive, and responsive to any and all questions I had during the process. I highly recommend him. He made the home buying and selling process easy.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Jan, 2024 by Dawn stancil
Caroleann and her team were awesome, she treated my mom with kindness and respect.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Jan, 2024 by Jessica lupercio
I had a work injury a while ago and every attorney would tell me that my case was difficult or that I had no case. Caroleann G listened to what happened and gave me hope. It wasn't easy and it took longer than we expected because of covid but Caroleann won my case and I will forever be grateful, she didn't give up and fought a lot. She has a good heart and great determination.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Jan, 2024 by Paula corrigan
I knew next to nothing about Workmen’s Comp. Jim Coogan took the time to explain how it works, what to expect.and answered all my questions. I couldn’t be more pleased.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
31 Aug, 2024 by Melissa walters
We are so grateful that Steve represented us during the sale of our home. He was prepared, thoughtful, diligent, and kind, especially during some last-minute complications. We would not hesitate to work with him again!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Rae gray
Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2024 by Carla mckeand
I used Griffin to assist in the buying and selling of 2 properties. He was completely professional, proactive, and responsive to any and all questions I had during the process. I highly recommend him. He made the home buying and selling process easy.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Mariana bojilova
I would like to say thank you to Mr. Jeffrey Fagan for representing my daughter in court . As a teenager , it was her first accident and she was so nervous and scared . Mr. Fagan was so nice , knowledgeable, patient , honest and caring . He made her feel safe and protected . Her case/trail was successful and she was so happy with the outcome . I have to mentioned that the whole process was so easy , just because he was very detailed with his explanations to us . He understood us as clients and his prices were so fair and affordable . Thank you again Mr. Fagan , we appreciate everything what you did for our daughter . We truly appreciate it !
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Jan, 2024 by Robin wilcox
Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Sep, 2023 by E cohen
Excellent in every aspect. Highly recommended!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2024 by Marek gryko
Bardzo dziekuje Panu za wszelka pomoc .
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Patrycja dybas
I am very grateful for your cooperation. A very professional law firm. Everyone very helpful and great communication. Attorney Peter Wachowski put his whole heart into helping me in my case, he was very experienced and fought to the end to ensure that the case was successfully concluded. I highly recommend it.Thank you for everything
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Aug, 2024 by Jun lim
Very efficient and great communication. We had all the forms and info before our appointment. This allowed us to conclude our business in one appointment. A big convenience since all 3 us had to attend in person.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2024 by Marek gryko
Bardzo dziekuje Panu za wszelka pomoc .
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Patrycja dybas
I am very grateful for your cooperation. A very professional law firm. Everyone very helpful and great communication. Attorney Peter Wachowski put his whole heart into helping me in my case, he was very experienced and fought to the end to ensure that the case was successfully concluded. I highly recommend it.Thank you for everything
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Aug, 2024 by Jun lim
Very efficient and great communication. We had all the forms and info before our appointment. This allowed us to conclude our business in one appointment. A big convenience since all 3 us had to attend in person.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2024 by Marek gryko
Bardzo dziekuje Panu za wszelka pomoc .
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Patrycja dybas
I am very grateful for your cooperation. A very professional law firm. Everyone very helpful and great communication. Attorney Peter Wachowski put his whole heart into helping me in my case, he was very experienced and fought to the end to ensure that the case was successfully concluded. I highly recommend it.Thank you for everything
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Aug, 2024 by Jun lim
Very efficient and great communication. We had all the forms and info before our appointment. This allowed us to conclude our business in one appointment. A big convenience since all 3 us had to attend in person.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Apr, 2024 by Candice harvey-hickman
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Jan, 2024 by Pam piazza
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Mar, 2019 by Victor h
Excellent experience selling my rental property.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
09 Oct, 2017 by Marie
John came highly recommended from a family friend. He thoroughly explained to me the importance of some list items I wanted to take care of and handled a delicate situation with care. I cannot stress the important of thinking ahead in planning for the unknown. Thank you, John.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Jan, 2008 by Anonymous
While closing for my first condo in Chicago, John and his staff professionally and courteously guided me through the paperwork. He kindly represented me during the closing process and his staff immediately followed through with their commitments.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
18 Jul, 2024 by Paul csabai
Very professional service as well as always answered phone calls on the first call. Extremely reliable firm and will recommend them to others.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Jun, 2024 by Jill addis
Frank is an incredible and knowledgeable attorney! He’s responsive, talented, and highly respected in the legal community. He goes above and beyond for his clients.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Jun, 2024 by Lincoln skalla
The most professional and helpful lawyer I've ever worked with. Could not recommend Frank more, thank you for all of the help!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Jul, 2024 by Paul csabai
Very professional service as well as always answered phone calls on the first call. Extremely reliable firm and will recommend them to others.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Jun, 2024 by Jill addis
Frank is an incredible and knowledgeable attorney! He’s responsive, talented, and highly respected in the legal community. He goes above and beyond for his clients.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Jun, 2024 by Lincoln skalla
The most professional and helpful lawyer I've ever worked with. Could not recommend Frank more, thank you for all of the help!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Sep, 2024 by Ramona charles
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Rhonda bolden
Simply the best!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Jan, 2024 by Ocullusdon gaming
Did a great job on my DUI CASE. Very good lawyer
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Sep, 2024 by Ramona charles
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Rhonda bolden
Simply the best!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Jan, 2024 by Ocullusdon gaming
Did a great job on my DUI CASE. Very good lawyer
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2017 by Kim
John was my attorney for a divorce 5 years ago. I had never worked with an attorney and didn't know what to expect. My fairly simple divorce still ended up taking a full year. In part, due to stall tactics on the other end but partly because John was very slow about responding to even simple easy requests or revisions of the MSA or Parenting agreement. After I was already divorced, he continued to represent me (if you can call it that) in dealing with some child support issues. I would often have to correct his work as he was not careful about listening to my issues or the matters we were trying to fix. I would have to spend a lot of time going over facts we had already discussed again and again and I would always have to doublecheck his work as he rarely got the information correct the first time. This caused me to pay excess fees for his time back and forth with the other attorney even when he was at fault. Emails and calls went unreturned constantly. I foolishly stayed with him over the years because I thought there was some advantage in his knowing my history but I wish I would have searched for another attorney much sooner. I didn't feel that he cared about me or my situation and the lack of professionalism just got to be too much.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2015 by Patrick
Divorces are obviously really stressful. John and his team always told me when I could expect to hear from them. He knew my budget was limited because I was going through some financial hardships at the time, as a result of the divorce. My bill was very low because John valued my time an my money. I pretty much got everything I wanted out of the divorce including my children. My recommendation when working with John or any lawyer would be agree to set clear expectations of communication. Court systems move slow. He'll send you news as he gets it and calling the guy 1000 times in between is not going to get you the information any faster, but it will drive up the bill. Know that the court systems move slow, but they do move. John is a solid attorney in comparison to the horror stories I've heard about other attorneys. I have recommended him to several people who also were very happy with him.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Never returns phone calls. Always late to Court appearances. Unorganized, sloppy, incompetent and completely got schooled by opposing counsel. Only cares about keeping his billing current. He has no business practicing law. Save your money & your sanity, hire one of the dozens of other lawyers in Chicago.
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You

A real estate lawyer provides legal assistance in transactions and disputes involving property, including residential and commercial real estate. Whether you're buying, selling, leasing, or developing property, a real estate attorney can help ensure that your transactions are legally sound and your rights are protected. They review contracts, perform due diligence, resolve disputes, and provide legal representation in negotiations and litigation involving property matters.

Real estate lawyers are crucial in safeguarding your investment by ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal real estate laws, as well as protecting you from potential legal pitfalls related to property ownership and transactions.

When Should I Hire a Real Estate Lawyer?

Hiring a real estate lawyer is beneficial in various scenarios, including:

  • Buying or selling property: When navigating complex real estate contracts, it’s advisable to have a lawyer review and ensure that the terms are favorable and legal.
  • Commercial property transactions: For leasing, purchasing, or selling commercial properties, a lawyer can help manage the intricate legal aspects of such transactions.
  • Zoning or land use issues: If you're planning to develop property or change its use, a real estate lawyer can guide you through zoning laws and land use regulations.
  • Resolving property disputes: For boundary disputes, title issues, or disagreements over property rights, a lawyer can help mediate or litigate the matter.
  • Foreclosures or evictions: If you're dealing with foreclosure or managing a tenant eviction, legal representation ensures that the process adheres to local laws and protects your interests.
  • Title and deed issues: Lawyers can help clear title disputes, ensure the legitimacy of property deeds, and handle transfers of ownership.

What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?

A real estate lawyer provides a range of services to help with property transactions and disputes, including:

  • Contract drafting and review: Ensuring that purchase agreements, leases, and other contracts are legally binding, fair, and protect your interests.
  • Title search and clearance: Conducting a thorough title search to ensure that the property has no legal claims or liens that could affect ownership.
  • Facilitate closing: Managing the closing process in real estate transactions, including reviewing final documents and ensuring that everything is in order before the transfer of ownership.
  • Resolve disputes: Handling legal disputes related to property ownership, boundaries, zoning, or tenants.
  • Assist in financing: Reviewing loan agreements and mortgage documents to ensure the terms are fair and legally sound.
  • Zoning and land use advice: Guiding clients through the complexities of zoning laws and building regulations for property development or renovation projects.

How Are Real Estate Lawyers Paid?

Real estate lawyers typically charge for their services in the following ways:

  • Flat fee: Many real estate transactions, such as reviewing a sales contract or assisting with a closing, are charged on a flat-fee basis.
  • Hourly rates: If a lawyer is handling complex disputes or litigation, they may charge by the hour. Hourly rates can vary significantly based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Contingency fees: In rare cases, such as property disputes or claims for damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle the case.
  • Retainer: For ongoing legal support, some clients may pay a retainer, which is an upfront fee used as a deposit for future legal services.

It's important to clarify the fee structure with your attorney before hiring them to avoid any surprises.

How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?

The cost of a real estate lawyer varies based on the complexity of the matter, the location of the property, and the lawyer’s experience. Key factors that affect pricing include:

  • Type of transaction or issue: Simple tasks, like contract reviews, typically cost less than handling a complex property dispute or litigation.
  • Experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in high-demand areas, like urban centers, often charge higher rates.
  • Billing structure: Lawyers may charge a flat fee for basic services like document review or hourly for more time-intensive work such as disputes or litigation.

Flat fees for straightforward services like closing assistance may range from $500 to $1,500.

Hourly rates can range from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the attorney’s experience and location.

Always discuss fees upfront to understand the overall cost of the legal service you're receiving.

Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Lawyer

Before hiring a real estate lawyer, ask the following questions to ensure they are the right fit for your legal needs:

  1. What experience do you have with real estate law?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience in the type of real estate transaction or dispute you’re facing, whether residential, commercial, or development-related.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for services - whether it's a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer - so there are no surprises later on.
  3. How long will the process take?
    Especially important for real estate transactions or disputes with deadlines, ask for a general estimate of how long the process will last.
  4. Have you handled cases similar to mine?
    Experience with similar transactions or disputes can give you confidence that the lawyer knows how to handle your case.
  5. Will you handle my case personally, or will it be passed to another attorney?
    Confirm who will be handling the bulk of your case work, especially in larger firms where junior lawyers may take on some responsibilities.
  6. Can you provide references?
    Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the lawyer's experience and how they handle cases.

How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable real estate lawyer, take these steps:

  • Check with the state bar association: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no disciplinary actions on their record.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on legal directories and platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have past clients willing to share their experiences.
  • Review their track record and expertise: Look at the lawyer’s website or LinkedIn profile for information about their experience in real estate law and any relevant cases they’ve handled.
  • Membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of respected legal or real estate organizations, like the American Bar Association’s Real Property Division, often signal credibility and expertise.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make your first meeting with a real estate lawyer productive, you should prepare the following materials:

  • Relevant property documents: Bring purchase agreements, lease contracts, mortgage documents, zoning permits, or any other paperwork related to your case.
  • A summary of the issue or transaction: Be ready to explain the situation, whether it's a property dispute, contract negotiation, or development issue.
  • Questions about the legal process: Prepare a list of questions about how the lawyer will handle your case and what steps are involved.
  • Financial documents or loan agreements: If the case involves financing or a mortgage, bring any related documents for the lawyer to review.
  • Your goals and timeline: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, and if there are any deadlines that need to be considered, such as closing dates or legal filings.

By coming prepared, you can ensure that your consultation is efficient and informative, allowing you to assess whether the lawyer is the right fit for your real estate needs.

Scroll to top