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22 Aug, 2020 by Lee
Stephen is by far the best real estate lawyer I have ever come across. I recently bought a house that took me more than 7 months to close. Just days before the scheduled initial closing, the bank took the property from the owner which meant the house was foreclose and was offered as a short sale. Stephen, stood by me knowing that I wanted the property. he encourage me, reached out to the other party's attorney to ensure the short sale process was sped up. At the end I got the key to the property with many thanks to the selfless help of Stephen. He is very indispensable and I was able to reach him at work, though his cell phone even at his home phone. This is my second dealing with Stephen, he help closed my first home which I sold in 2018 and now to my new home. I will highly recommend with Stephen.
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01 Aug, 2020 by Carra
We have used attorney Ketaineck several times. He is professional, knowledgeable and accommodating. We would recommend him as well as use him again.
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19 Jun, 2020 by Michael
Steve helped with my home closing. He was professional, thorough, and responsive -- I recommend his services. Thank you, Steve for making my closing go smoothly.
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05 Dec, 2009 by Candee
Attorney Barrett represented me in a Workers' Compensation case that was not an ordinary case but one that was unique and complex. He always took the time to answer all my question, listen to and address my concerns, and returned my calls in a timely manner. I found him to be caring, compassionate, and very understanding as to what I was going through due to my injury. Over the years I also used him for various other legal matters with the same results. Attorney Barrett is truly a lawyer and a man of intregrity.
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03 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Attorney Barrett helped with the closing on my home - it was a bit of a tricky case because the property is on a town line, and needed to be recorded in two towns - but Attorney Barrett and his team was right there to explain all my questions and to help ensure it was handled properly.
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19 Oct, 2016 by Bob
Always did what was explained to us-And was very professional-Bob Jarvis
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26 Sep, 2022 by King
Just wonderful in every way. What a joy to deal with such an intelligent man. A true Catholic , he exemplifies the ideals that we all strive for. Tooboot, he played professional baseball in the St. Louis Cardinals organization. As a humble Christian, he never forgot his best friends; Tommy Bilodeau, shortstop , and “the red neck” King Triplett.and , “the red neck” King Triplett, third baseman.
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20 Jul, 2011 by Linda
I found Attorney Rocco Tirozzi to be very professional. He called me back in a timely manner and answered all my questions. He told me about every possible angle and informed me of all situations that may ariase. He in my opinion cares about his clients and his work. He crosses all Ts and dotts every I
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22 Mar, 2021 by Anita
I found Attorney Michael Todd Taylor through google and decided to hire him for my real estate transaction. I’m happy I did because Mr. Taylor was respectful, professional, and diligent. I’m out of state and Mr. Taylor made selling my property effortless on my part. He was responsive to emails/phone calls and timely that we closed by the due date. You will not be disappointed so don’t hesitate working with this great attorney.
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21 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Working with Attorney Taylor on our closing was a pleasure. He is exceptionally knowledgeable and was always willing to offer input and advice as we navigated the home buying process. Attorney Taylor is thorough and did everything within his power to ensure the process went smoothly.
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18 Jul, 2020 by Jill
Working with Attorney Taylor was easy! He was very knowledgeable in handling the sale of our existing home and the closing at our new home. Both sale and purchase occurred during the pandemic, which caused a lot of stress and anxiety. Attorney Taylor walked us through it with ease and we couldn’t be more grateful.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Kevin conlan
Very kind, and helped my mother with important legal documents. I will certainly consider their services again in the future and I highly recommend them to others.
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07 Jan, 2024 by Jeneisis
Attorney Fischer helped me thrifty since the dark times when my sister and mother passed at 21' & 22'. He got me through my mother's passing, her probate, and the sale of my mother's home seamlessly. I will always be grateful. 🙏🏾
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16 Jul, 2023 by Lynn citarella
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10 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I am so glad that I chose Kristen Wolf as my attorney for my collaborative divorce. She guided me through the most difficult of times with a calm and measured wisdom that I so appreciated. She is a steadfast advocate, and I must say particularly oriented to a woman's experience when the marriage has been a controlling one! She is an excellent attorney.
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01 May, 2019 by Chantelle
Attorney Wolf was the BEST attorney I have ever worked with. She made me feel protected and confident throughout this whole process. She is extremely knowledgeable and knows how to use her knowledge to win. She always gave %110. I am MORE than satisfied with how she handled my case as well as the outcome. I would absolutely recommend this firm and attorney Wolf to anyone seeking fierce representation.
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26 Apr, 2017 by Amanda
During a really tough time Wolf & Shore, LLC helped me so much. Dealing with an estate is too overwhelming so having them take over was the best decision I ever made. I will use them again in the future if I ever need to! I hope that others will use them for any probate matters.
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14 Oct, 2021 by Liz
My husband and I utilized Mr Will Howery for the sale of our home. It was our first time selling and the process was all new to us, as we had bought from a bank, so many steps we hadn’t even done as buyers. Will was patient in explaining things clearly and in layman’s terms, often more than once when needed. We never got the feeling that we were bothering him if a question arose. Sometimes we didn’t know if it was “a lawyer or realtor question” but Will was happy to answer them all! He was thorough in his attention to detail, even catching an error from when we bought the house that neither attorney then caught! We will absolutely utilize his services again and recommend you do as well!
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17 Aug, 2021 by Catherine
I hired Mr. Howery to put together a Will as my partner and I are not married. I wanted to ensure our assets would stay in the family should something happen to me. Mr. Howery clearly communicated what was required, provided insightful recommendations, made me feel confident in my decisions and comfortable during the entire process.
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13 Aug, 2021 by Eric
Mr. Howery assisted me with several legal matters and I was more than satisfied. He helped me write my Will and listened well, asked important clarifying questions and put together just what was needed to make me feel confident and at ease with a difficult task. He also put together a living will with me and I was able to understand the details of making my advance directives clear for myself, my family, medical personnel, and my conservator. Will (and we easily got to a first name basis in our talks), was also there with me for the closing, when I was selling my home. He again had all the right documents and steps clearly managed and understood. He did catch a minor but major detail…the buyer’s lawyer had forgotten to sign his check! That was a vital, and easy, almost funny repair after all the pages of other legal bank documents! I would recommend Attorney Howery unswervingly, without any reservation, and I can bet that once you start with him, you would go to no one else (unless, of course, he was recommending the referral to a colleague for an aspect of law that required specific experience and a skill set he was not best to offer). You will find Will to be attentive to detail and very capable. Do give him a call when you need a friendly lawyer who does his research and inspires confidence.
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24 Oct, 2017 by Dave
Jim was the most professional and patient attorney I have ever worked with, helping my parents plan for their future. Both are in their 80's and Jim explained everything to both of them and our family. Not sure what we would have done without him. Highly recommend.
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11 Sep, 2015 by Michael
As the executor of my Dad's estate. I was not satisfied with Attorney Fischer's demeanor (and remarks) before and after in carrying out my Dad's wishes. I resigned as executor of the estate. I will end here as I will refer the to "review guidelines" and move forward.
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11 Jun, 2013 by Elizabeth
I am an attorney specializing in pension law. I have referred many clients to Attorney Fischer and his firm for elder law advice. Everyone I have referred has been very pleased.
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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.

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