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11 Sep, 2024 by Audrey harden
Rita’s attention to detail when buying our first home was impeccable. She educated us along the way and made sure that every question was answered before we hit each milestone. We are so grateful to have had her looking out for us during this major moment in our lives.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer williams
I have used Tyre&DeThomas for several real estate matters and referred a family matter to the firm regarding a Family Court matter. I worked primarily with Ms. DeThomas. Her attention to detail, her professionalism and knowledge of the law were exceptional. Each time I engaged the firm I was left with the impression I was their only client. I highly recommend their services.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Arlene mcdermott
Wonderful job by Fran DeThomas representing me at my house closing. My best interest was first and foremost and Fran did a great job explaining every step of the process. This stressful period was made so much easier. Fran handled everything professionally and competently and I knew I had picked the right attorney.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Laurie batal
Randie and her team are fully equipped for all real estate instances, are thorough, and work in real time. I never had to wait for any documents or questions to be answered. I can’t imagine working with anyone else… she’s got your back and her clients’ interests come first. Highly recommend Randie and her team.
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15 Sep, 2023 by Lauren o'c
We had a great experience working with Randie and everyone in her office. They were sympathetic to the stress surrounding a real estate transaction but also extremely professional and efficient.
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11 Sep, 2023 by Babs rangaiah
Randie and her team were excellent to work with. They represented us both for the sale of our house in Westchester as well as the purchase of an apt in Manhattan. They couldn't have made what can typically be a complex time/process easier. They are the best:-)
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08 Jul, 2024 by Amber s
After a life altering car accident when I was just 19 years old, a family member put me in touch with a lawyer who quickly realized the person that should be representing me was Terry, given his extensive experience in this particular field. Terry and his team made this as painless of a process for me as it could’ve been. I’m beyond grateful for the compassion and dedication they exhibited in my time working with them. After my first meeting with Terry I was confident that if anybody was going to get me a fair settlement, it would be him. I’ll be 24 next month and because of Terry I’ll be living comfortably. This is a man that doesn’t back down from a challenge and I most definitely wouldn’t want to go up against him in court.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Admin
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08 Jul, 2024 by Vincenzo lauria
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08 Jul, 2024 by Amber s
After a life altering car accident when I was just 19 years old, a family member put me in touch with a lawyer who quickly realized the person that should be representing me was Terry, given his extensive experience in this particular field. Terry and his team made this as painless of a process for me as it could’ve been. I’m beyond grateful for the compassion and dedication they exhibited in my time working with them. After my first meeting with Terry I was confident that if anybody was going to get me a fair settlement, it would be him. I’ll be 24 next month and because of Terry I’ll be living comfortably. This is a man that doesn’t back down from a challenge and I most definitely wouldn’t want to go up against him in court.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Admin
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08 Jul, 2024 by Vincenzo lauria
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23 Jan, 2024 by Carolyn
Rita was SO on it! She helped me out with a terribly difficult tenant very quickly. She was not only professional, but compassionate.
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19 Apr, 2017 by Enza
Rita Tino has helped our family both with a closing and other personal matters. She was on top of everything and made sure to stay on top of us to do our part. Rita cares about her clients, which I appreciated. We weren't just another closing to her. I highly recommend her.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dey’s animations
one of the best lawyers in Westchester county..he is the very professional and knowledgeable in the field of law
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08 Jul, 2024 by Bart didden
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16 Nov, 2019 by Paula nicolli
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13 Aug, 2020 by Susan
Have had quite a bit of experience working with lawyers (more than desired). I worked as a Business Manager as well as a Human Resources Manager for well-known and highly respected financial firms, some hedge funds, and a couple of law firms. Not only have I worked with lawyers from a business standpoint, but from a personal standpoint as well. Out of all the lawyers with whom I have worked, I trust him over all others (even at law firms at which I worked). Actually, my experience with lawyers have been borderline horrific (personally and professionally). However, my experience with John Gardner has been anything but .... He listens!!! He walks you through the process. No question is stupid. Even when he charges a flat fee, he is always willing to take the time to explain any question in detail. He is one of a kind (a GREAT kind), and would highly recommend him to any business and more importantly would highly recommend him to any close friend and/or associate.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Allison dolan
Super helpful! Mr. Palumbo handled my traffic ticket promptly and efficiently. I would highly recommend his services
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ian rappaport
I hired the Sam Shusterhoff law firm to handle the purchase of my first home. What an excellent experience. Sam was incredibly responsive and thorough with everything he did. I’d highly recommend Sam to anyone seeking a lawyer.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jesse jacobs
Samuel Shusterhoff sets the bar for how lease attorneys should represent their clients. I retained Sam to negotiate the lease for my restaurant last year and have been using him ever since. The level of professionalism, attention to detail, and personalized service I received was unprecedented. He is exceptional at what he does and most importantly, he cares! I highly recommend that anyone in need of a multifaceted and trusted attorney reach out to Samuel Shusterhoff.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Allison dolan
Super helpful! Mr. Palumbo handled my traffic ticket promptly and efficiently. I would highly recommend his services
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ian rappaport
I hired the Sam Shusterhoff law firm to handle the purchase of my first home. What an excellent experience. Sam was incredibly responsive and thorough with everything he did. I’d highly recommend Sam to anyone seeking a lawyer.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jesse jacobs
Samuel Shusterhoff sets the bar for how lease attorneys should represent their clients. I retained Sam to negotiate the lease for my restaurant last year and have been using him ever since. The level of professionalism, attention to detail, and personalized service I received was unprecedented. He is exceptional at what he does and most importantly, he cares! I highly recommend that anyone in need of a multifaceted and trusted attorney reach out to Samuel Shusterhoff.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Chris f
Had Mike handle a speeding ticket in Queens for me, and I have to say he was very professional. The process was so easy, everything done by email, and did not even have to appear in court and was able to get a mandatory 6 point ticket dropped down!!! Wouldn't go anywhere else for any tickets I get (hopefully I don't get anymore lol).
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08 Jul, 2024 by Joseph baiocco
I have been a practicing attorney in NY for 22 years, but do not handle real estate matters. When I asked three fellow attorneys who I should retain to handle my house closing, I was told that Sam Shusterhoff was the best in Westchester. I can confirm that this was true. Sam was professional, walked me through the process and was available to answer my questions and my wife’s questions at all times from when I first contacted him until we closed and took the keys to our new home. Its only been 3 days since my closing and I already recommend Sam to family and friends. I was thrilled to hear that he also does wills, estates and could help one of my clients who wishes to purchase a local moving company.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer wong
Sam helped my fiancé and I with our first home purchase in Orange County. He was very responsive, knowledgeable and very understanding since it was our first home purchase. And as stressful as the process was, Sam was very understanding and helped to keep us calm from beginning to end. I highly recommend! Thanks again for everything Sam!
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06 Oct, 2017 by Stephen
Fran is a detail-oriented and outstanding professional who I have known for 15 years and over the course of two family-related legal situations. I have had the ability to see how she works in relation to her colleagues and I have never ceased to be impressed by her abilities, intelligence and dedication to excellence. She has impressed me on every occasion. I also find Fran to be an extraordinary and kind human being. This is never lost in her work. I would recommend her without reservation.
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18 May, 2011 by Ann
As Fran's client, I found her to always conduct herself with professionalism and calm in the midst of a stressful time. She has the ability to focus on achieving the end result desired, and provided the guidance to get me there. I am very satisfied and would highly recommend her to others going through a divorce or child support issue.
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02 Jan, 2008 by Anonymous
I have known Frances since 2002 when I contacted her to assist me with my divorce. Since then, she has helped me with related issues including child support. I have found her to be extremely knowledgeable, friendly and responsive. In addition, she has common sense and has kept me focused on the important matters at hand, even in the midst of my own emotional turmoil. Time has proven, for me, that her decisions on some critical issues (such as what to pursue and what to drop) were good ones. Since the beginning of my relationship with her, she has provided me with peace of mind and the assurance that all will be well... which it is!
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25 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
keep out dangerous creepy and unprofessional and money hungry. Chronic liar and problem instigator.
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11 Jul, 2021 by Representing the lower income families
We provided Joan every document needed for the divorce and time after time, she would request the same documents over and over and over because she did not keep a record. This wasted time and money as she would ask for more money for the SAME documents we would send her repeatedly. The best part was that she didn’t communicate with the other party’s divorce lawyer causing us to miss court dates, and important documents. She would claim that she didn’t “receive” messages or emails about this…. everything has a time stamp Joan so Get your act together. In the end Joan proved to be a nasty lawyer and rude because she couldn’t accept responsibility that she wasted years to complete a divorce that had simple requests. If you’re looking for a divorce lawyer, run the other way. She’s horrible and not worth the time. She’s also rude because when visiting her office she would be on Facebook and neglect your concerns. She even admitted she took the case because she has to “cater” to lower income households. So she basically didn’t care to begin with. If we would’ve known she was a money hungry gold digger we would’ve never done business with her. Thanks for nothing.
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25 Nov, 2014 by David
I hired her for a Real Estate matter to draft a seller's Contract she totally didn't know what she was doing so had the buyer's attorney write the contract. This is highly unethical behavior. She never provided any of the closing documents after the close and paid herself way above market rate with out having a letter of representation to justify her new high rate. This was the most horrific legal experience I have ever had in my entire life. I have sold three properties and this was the most unprofessional experience of the all.
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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.

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