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11 Jul, 2022 by Carolisa selmo
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02 May, 2021 by Beth
I had consulted Attorney Allen regarding a landlord issue. She is well organized, thorough and to the point. She worked quickly to resolve my issue and I was very pleased with the outcome. She is very easy to talk to and I would not hesitate to call her again. I would highly recommend her for any real estate needs.
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02 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Jen has helped me with more than one real estate transaction. She is top notch. She goes the extra mile, is knowledgeable, professional, and diligent. She gets thing la done in a timely manner and there is nobody I will use for this type of business in the future!
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02 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Jamie was knowledgeable, professional, and fair. She was respectful, persistent and focused In all of her dealings with my son's father. She was able to bring about an increase in child support for my son with creative thinking. She suggested my son's father file for bankruptcy to get out from underneath heavy credit card debt, this allowed my ex to be able to increase his child support financially contribute meaningfully for our son's wellbeing.
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30 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Jamie Leighton as an attorney, I have hired her to handle my divorce, She is both knowledgeable and thorough. Attorney Leighton responds promptly to all queries and is always available to clarify issues. I am very pleased with her service. I would hire Attorney Leighton to handle all of my legal affairs and I recommend her to my family and friends.
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29 Aug, 2015 by Adam
I run a computer business in the Boston area. I hired Jamie Leighton to help me negotiate a commercial rental contract. She carefully walked me through the terms of the contract the landlord had proposed. She showed me which parts might create risks for my business. She also provided a common-sense assessment of the business wisdom of this rental, which helped me make a good decision about whether to go ahead with the project. I am grateful to have this good lawyer to guide my business as it grows.
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07 Sep, 2011 by Laura b.
I CANNOT say enough positive things about Attorney Levitz. To give a brief summary, I was recently going through a divorce w/ child custody involved. I started out with a different attorney. Although the process started a year ago it was dragging out. What should have been a simple, textbook case cost me SO much unnecessary time and money. Several days before the most recent court date I was frustrated and knew I needed to switch lawyers because I was so unhappy with mine. I asked a personal injury attorney I knew for a recommendation for a family law attorney and he recommended Bob Levitz. Despite the fact I only had a few days before the next court date I called Attorney Levitz's office and my call was immediately returned by his paralegal Michelle (who is WONDERFUL as well). Attny. Levitz was on vacation, interrupted his trip, and came up to meet with me and to take my case. At the consultation he was personable and knowledgeable and assured me he would take good care of me and hopefully be able to wrap up the case. I felt confident in his ability. Although I had a good experience at the consult, his demeanor and assistance in court really blew me away. He has been in practice for over 40 years and seems like he knows every inch of the law. He is a true advocate for his clients, and stood by me and for me unconditionally. His approach is firm, yet calm and he made me feel at ease the whole time. In the one court session he was able to tie up all loose ends of my case and get everything finalized and me out the door within a few hours with everything in the case going the way I had hoped and prayed it would. My ex-husbands attorney who had previously been giving the run around/playing games at all the other court dates suddenly became reasonable when my lawyer dealt with her, and by the end of the day was even asking Attorney Levitz for advice on some of her other cases. He is THAT respected, personable, and knowledgeable. It was honestly a pleasure to have him as a lawyer. My only regret is that I didn't start out with him to begin with! If you are looking for a lawyer I HIGHLY recommend scheduling a consultation with Attorney Levitz and seeing if he can help you. I cannot fathom how anyone could be disappointed by him. If I could give him 100 stars I would. -Laura B. / Franklin MA
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18 Jul, 2024 by E duperier
Dealing with SKM Title Company during our recent home closing was a frustrating experience marked by incompetence at every turn. From missed deadlines to inaccurate paperwork and even a major error that delayed the issuance of our proceeds check, they consistently failed to fulfill their basic responsibilities. Their lack of communication with our very competent attorney left us feeling uninformed and anxious throughout the process. Overall, our interaction with SKM Title Company was disappointing and highlighted significant areas in need of improvement. DO NOT use this company!
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08 Aug, 2023 by Garrett colvin
Buying our first home without using a realtor was a bit nerve wracking. However, Adrienne Arnold had our best interest in mind and made the whole process remarkably smooth! Couldn’t recommend her any louder.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Neil blackwell
We have used Adrienne Arnold for several real estate transactions over the last few years and highly recommend her. She is responsive, thorough, easy to work with and takes any unexpected problems in stride.
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18 Jul, 2024 by E duperier
Dealing with SKM Title Company during our recent home closing was a frustrating experience marked by incompetence at every turn. From missed deadlines to inaccurate paperwork and even a major error that delayed the issuance of our proceeds check, they consistently failed to fulfill their basic responsibilities. Their lack of communication with our very competent attorney left us feeling uninformed and anxious throughout the process. Overall, our interaction with SKM Title Company was disappointing and highlighted significant areas in need of improvement. DO NOT use this company!
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08 Aug, 2023 by Garrett colvin
Buying our first home without using a realtor was a bit nerve wracking. However, Adrienne Arnold had our best interest in mind and made the whole process remarkably smooth! Couldn’t recommend her any louder.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Neil blackwell
We have used Adrienne Arnold for several real estate transactions over the last few years and highly recommend her. She is responsive, thorough, easy to work with and takes any unexpected problems in stride.
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05 Dec, 2023 by George elmassih
Very professional and talented attorney. Have had nothing less than a great experience with Mrs Salpoglou. A+++
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30 Mar, 2021 by Paula campolina
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20 Aug, 2019 by Arman kazemi
Great service l, Very friendly, and not too expensive
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19 Jan, 2024 by Balint karosi
Wonderful people, easy to deal with!
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10 Jun, 2023 by Blue soleau
I couldn't of asked for a better attorney than Shahria to represent me for the closing of my house. She was so patient, and always kept my best interests at hand when dealing with the constant buyer delays that occurred during the process. Professional and answered my questions promptly and kept me in the loop every step of the way. She was reasonably priced and I will definitely seek her to represent me with future endeavors. Thank you so much Shahria!
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30 Apr, 2022 by Antime saby
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05 Dec, 2023 by George elmassih
Very professional and talented attorney. Have had nothing less than a great experience with Mrs Salpoglou. A+++
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30 Mar, 2021 by Paula campolina
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20 Aug, 2019 by Arman kazemi
Great service l, Very friendly, and not too expensive
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20 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Family hired him to resolve an issue. I understand things take time. Took their money told them he will get back to them. They call only get his secretary. Emails and phone calls go unanswered. Everyone who ever used him said he takes so long. Wish we knew this ahead of time. Would have went with a different attorney. I guess he doesnt understand that online reviews can make or break a business. His FB account shows 5 stars which must be a lie. I hate giving negative reviews but I guess I'm going to have to until this situation is resolved. Once it is resolved I will update the review.
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19 Aug, 2014 by Leo
After initial payment, week later we met to discus where we stood concerning Elder law.Said he would get back to us in a couple of weeks. Five years sent a letter to us apologizing for the delay, and promised a response in two weeks..Almost a year later no response.Notified his office that I did not expect to hear from him again and chalked off my loss as a lesson learned.
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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.

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