Best Real Estate lawyers in Wisconsin

2,241 Real Estate Lawyers in Wisconsin

>2.2k

experienced lawyers

Mark C. Young

1011 N Mayfair Rd Ste 200, Milwaukee, WI

Business Estate Planning Real Estate +3

2.5/5

1.0

1 Reviews

4.0

4 Reviews

05 Dec, 2023 by Toby seider

Nice and friendly DR.

31 Oct, 2023 by Jim gaulke

Excellent business transaction attorney.

27 Aug, 2023 by Marybeth dueno

Atty Scott Benson helped me with several things and he is reliable and efficient. Highly recommend.

Kevin J. Sjostrom

1011 N Mayfair Rd Ste 200, Wauwatosa, WI

Real Estate +1

2.5/5

1.0

1 Reviews

4.0

4 Reviews

05 Dec, 2023 by Toby seider

Nice and friendly DR.

31 Oct, 2023 by Jim gaulke

Excellent business transaction attorney.

27 Aug, 2023 by Marybeth dueno

Atty Scott Benson helped me with several things and he is reliable and efficient. Highly recommend.

Nathan M. Cockerham

1109 Tower Ave, Superior, WI

Appeals Litigation Real Estate +3

2.4/5

1.0

3 Reviews

3.8

30 Reviews

05 Apr, 2024 by James paulley

28 Mar, 2024 by Tim house

Nate Cockerham was professional through the entire court process. He gave me plenty of good advice and was able to keep me calm during this turbulent time. He represented me extremely well in the court room, in front of the judge. He was able to get me the best possible outcome in my case. I am very grateful to have such an excellent lawyer on my side. I would recommend him to anyone.

17 Mar, 2024 by Raven rautio

Terrence J. Garske

Po Box 479, Wausau, WI

Business Estate Planning Real Estate +3

2.4/5

2.4

12 Reviews

10 May, 2024 by Joshua neitzke

Cool

30 Mar, 2024 by Bryan londerville

Heath 5 stars not enough when you are a 10 Thank you

30 Mar, 2024 by Tony lottice

It doesn't matter what you need. HEATH will get the job done for you and save you time & money! If there was an option for 100 stars thats what I would be giving!

John B. Wagman

Po Box 479, Wausau, WI

Business Litigation Real Estate +3

2.4/5

2.4

12 Reviews

10 May, 2024 by Joshua neitzke

Cool

30 Mar, 2024 by Bryan londerville

Heath 5 stars not enough when you are a 10 Thank you

30 Mar, 2024 by Tony lottice

It doesn't matter what you need. HEATH will get the job done for you and save you time & money! If there was an option for 100 stars thats what I would be giving!

Lori J. Fabian

720 Clinton Street, Waukesha, WI

Family Law Probate Real Estate +3

2.3/5

2.3

3 Reviews

09 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous

She failed to do her job as a lawyer and for a child. No communication and very disrespectful for being a lawyer. Didn't do research or follow-ups. Don't waste your time. You're better off representing yourself

11 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous

Lori has been our attorney for 10 years. She has always provided exceptional legal services. She is honest and straightforward.

06 May, 2021 by Anonymous

Put a child back into a hostile environment that she knew was dangerous The child who is under ten tried to end his life 3 times. She was supposed to protect the well being but did the complete opposite. She was responsible for that and people were appalled. Also told various lies during proceedings. Today the child suffers from depression and anxiety.

Duncan C. Delhey

16345 W Glendale Dr, New Berlin, WI

Business Foreclosure Real Estate +3

2.3/5

2.3

3 Reviews

12 Jun, 2022 by Jason dennison

01 Oct, 2021 by Jim galas

23 Feb, 2017 by Nikki watson

They are taking their sweet time closing the house we are trying to buy. They have made multiple errors and not getting paperwork done on time. It may not matter to them, but when you are trying to buy a house and create a life, it matters to the buyer. Someone needs to get a work ethic or quit.

Paul Allan Johnson

156 S Main St, Lodi, WI

Business Estate Planning Government +2 +5

2.3/5

2.3

3 Reviews

06 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous

Mr. Johnson helped us through a myriad of details when our elderly mother needed assistance with her estate planning. He explained everything thoroughly and we knew we were in good hands. We have recommended him to other family members and they have been very pleased with his professionalism and expert knowledge.

16 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous

Paul Johnson takes advantage of clients and overbills for his services to the elderly. He was very unprofessional and spoke to other people about us and our case. They happened to be acquaintances and told us what he said. We would suggest no one ever hire him. We have also reported him to the bar.

25 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous

Paul is an extremely knowledgeable and reliable attorney. He has helped me and my family with numerous issues; I recommend him often to friends and acquaintances.

Heather M. Huebner

1257 Main Street, Stevens Point, WI

Business Debt Collection Estate Planning +2 +5

2.3/5

2.3

3 Reviews

07 Aug, 2024 by Amy cywinski

BEWARE!!!! Amy Eddy is a high priced attorney, staff misspelled my name on initial filing of probate documents, Amy doesn't return my emails, phone calls, won't answer my questions but her staff keeps sending my brother invoices for high priced attorney fees. My brother's court documents expired and they have made no progress on closing my Dads estate but attorney Amy Eddy keeps sending my brother her high priced attorneys fees. I feel totally uncomfortable with Amy Eddy handling my Dad's estate. Went to court asked for her to be removed because she isn't helping my brother through the probate process just charging him fees. She won't remove herself because I think she just wants to collect her high priced fees and profit off my deceased Army Veteran father's estate. I will be filing a complaint against her law license with the WI State board of attorneys for attorney misconduct.

20 Apr, 2023 by Mrs. lea

Takes advantage of people.

11 Aug, 2020 by Krista mendyke

fun place to grab coffee

Thomas Clair Binger

912 56th St, Kenosha, WI

Litigation Mediation Real Estate +3

2.3/5

2.3

3 Reviews

23 Nov, 2021 by Kammi

Too many heartless fools with access to the internet in this country. Binger did a great job trying to show the line between reasonable self defense and reckless homicide. America trampled on that line and now set their targets on running his life. He’s also wickedly attractive so that’s a nice bonus.

17 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous

Man child……………………………………………………………………. I would never in a million years hire this strange fellow. Makes everyone in the room cringe.

11 Nov, 2021 by Charles sneed

YOU WILL NEVER BE A DISTRICT ATTORNEY, YOU HAVE NO WON ELECTIONS, NO APPOINTMENTS.

Brent William Jacobson

1257 Main St, Stevens Point, WI

Car Accident Litigation Personal Injury +1 +4

2.3/5

2.3

3 Reviews

07 Aug, 2024 by Amy cywinski

20 Apr, 2023 by Mrs. lea

Takes advantage of people.

11 Aug, 2020 by Krista mendyke

fun place to grab coffee

Paul A. Maranan

4757 S. Packard Avenue, Cudahy, WI

Child Support Estate Planning Family Law +1 +4

2.3/5

2.3

3 Reviews

19 Oct, 2017 by Michael

Paul answered my email very quickly and followed by a brief, very informative phone call. He provided guidance on a simple legal question that I needed confirmation on. Thanks Paul!

27 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous

Paul was hired for a child custody case. He failed to have the other party served properly therefore pushing the court date back.

13 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous

Did not correctly convey the final wishes as stated onto or into the Will. Instead of listening to the final wishes and disposition of property, kept making suggestions and making me feel bad about excluding certain persons. My will was very simplistic and made even more so on paper. Very old fashioned and not able to see or think outside the "box". Would not recommend at all!!!

Oliver M. Bauer

2124 Kohler Memorial Drive Suite 310, Sheboygan, WI

Government Litigation Real Estate +3

2.2/5

2.2

5 Reviews

26 Jul, 2024 by Galen kincanon

Very unprofessional and unethical lawfirm. I can only speak from my experience with Oliver Bauer, but he uses witnesses that lie on the stand. I made him aware that purjery was committed, and the same witness was used as a credibility witness on another court date.

30 May, 2024 by Beau

Paul was great.

19 Dec, 2023 by Lisa morgan docter

Do not....I repeat do not hire Herbert Humke unless you want to be ignored. Tells you that you can't afford to file contempt of court!!! Tell you what Herbert I will take my money elsewhere.

Paul A. Dirkse

2124 Kohler Memorial Drive, Suite 310, Sheboygan, WI

Business Estate Planning Government +2 +5

2.2/5

2.2

5 Reviews

26 Jul, 2024 by Galen kincanon

30 May, 2024 by Beau

Paul was great.

19 Dec, 2023 by Lisa morgan docter

Do not....I repeat do not hire Herbert Humke unless you want to be ignored. Tells you that you can't afford to file contempt of court!!! Tell you what Herbert I will take my money elsewhere.

John M. Murphy

114 W Court St, Elkhorn, WI

Adoption Family Law Litigation +1 +4

2.1/5

2.1

14 Reviews

31 Jul, 2019 by Evelyn

John Murphy is a nice guy but his ethics need some work. He handled my case for almost a year. He never returns phone calls unless you repeatedly call his office. We’re talking weeks not days. Never answers your emails. Tried to get a petition filed right away but due to his poor communication it was filed 4 months later. Told me the filing was done in December, not record with the court house. Wasn’t done till January after I made multiple calls to his office. If you want a lawyer that’s passive, he’s your man.

09 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous

Even though my case was quite a few years ago, I am still paying fees for extremely poor representation. If I could have seen reviews like this before hiring John Murphy, the outcome and my bills could have been very different. I feel obligated to post to help someone else needing an attorney in the future. This is not the one to hire. Communication did not exist. I made so many phone calls that were not returned, and not provided interrogatories and therefore contempt charges were filed. Luckily the legal secretary called me at the last minute on a Friday asking for them when they were due on Monday. I was still charged with contempt of court, but then cleared when I pointed out my attorney failed to deliver. He was not prepared for court dates, and even failed to notify me of one that was scheduled. This man should not be practicing family law. With so many bad reviews that are consistent stories, I don't understand why he is. I was also charged for things that did not happen at all. Phone calls that were not made, work that was not completed. Very disappointing.

17 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous

I hired him to represent me in a family matter the initial meeting went over okay however after the first court hearing it became obvious that John Murphy was only in this for a paycheck he's very disorganized and does a very poor job with client follow up during the process it became obvious John Murphy is more focused on building alliances and relationships with his fellow attorneys than looking after the best interest of his client this guy took my money never called me back withdrew motions that I had open in court John Murphy allows his personal beliefs to guide him through a court case not what the client has hired him for he decides what he wants to do and never consults you additionally he absolutely will never return a phone call I personally called him 15 two 25 times over the span of two months and he never returned my call Specifically custody and visitation is what I hired him for in addition to child support as it stood Walworth County child support department said that I owed in excess of $25,000 in child support arrears As it turns out he did nothing and what ultimately happened was on my own after going to court for five years it was proven Walworth County child support have been collecting child support for years and not crediting it to the proper account and I was issued a $25,000 credit for past-due child Whether or not John Murphy believed me when I retained him and told him I didn't know any past due child support is it relevant clearly he didn't believe me however he still should have provided me at least a rudimentary level of defense for the baseless assertion that I owed this child support and he never did I had to face a contempt of court hearing on myown hiring John Murphy was like hiring another attorney to work against me in the process of fighting for custody and try to straighten out the mess of Child Support John Murphy provided me the worst possible experience a client could get from an attorney I would not recommend him to anyone I'm so extremely disappointed that I wasted my money my time and my efforts on this attorney I was nearly put in jail for contempt of court for not paying child support that I never owed he sold me up a creek to the child support attorney and I was left to sort the mess out on my own after I paid him ultimately as stated earlier I did receive a $25,000 credit for past-due child support that I did On My Own by continually going to court and defending myself after I paayed john Murphy

John Edward German

10520 W Bluemound Rd Ste 102, Milwaukee, WI

Criminal Defense Estate Planning Real Estate +3

2.1/5

1.0

2 Reviews

2.6

5 Reviews

10 Aug, 2024 by Travis bass

I’m a retired federal agent, after arriving time with special operations in the military. I was discharged from the Jessie Brown VA and pulled over. I have a drinking problem and was there to detox. I had a seizure upon discharge. These guys told me it’s “only a misdemeanor.” That was in 2020. I have sense relocated and found out upon renewing my license that it wasn’t valid. Literally the worst law firm I have worked with. Do not use them!

22 Sep, 2023 by Ottavien willingham

Would not recommend, after paying $3,500 John German did nothing for us to help argue our case and get it lowered. It’s like he just collected a nice paycheck and did nothing. Very hard to get in communication with says he will call and that doesn’t happen until days later.

18 Aug, 2021 by Regina brodie-bailey

Vicki E. Zick

475 Hartwig Blvd, Johnson Creek, WI

Appeals Business Family Law +2 +5

2.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

3.0

6 Reviews

26 Dec, 2022 by Dan s

Terrible experience with this law firm. Attorney Zick should be retired, she is so disorganized and heavily relies on her secretary to remind her how to do her job. Secretary has a bad attitude. Took almost a month to handle a simple land contract sale. Would never use this law office again!

13 Sep, 2020 by Kaycee meracle

Always helpful.

20 May, 2020 by Jessica ibarra

Attorney gave me the wrong dates to reopen a case and lost out entirely at another chance of having my case looked at. Throughout the duration of my case I kept being asked for my opinion on what I thought we should do instead of being guided by what I thought was a professional and knowledgeable attorney. Do not recommend.

Rebecca M. Richards-Bria

225 E State St, Mauston, WI

Criminal Defense Family Law Personal Injury +2 +5

2.0/5

2.0

8 Reviews

26 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous

Several calls to her office were rudely answered by her assistant. Did not answer the questions and repeated what I already knew. When I asked what the purpose of her services are _ " to lookout for the best interest of the client" okay please educate me to what the entails. " to look out for the best interest of the client". Great thank you for telling me what I already know. She is the worst attorney and has absolutely no business practicing law NOR being pushed on anyone from the Juneau County Court House. I will be lodging a formal complaint with the State Bar Association.

23 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous

Rebecca was hired to be a representative and failed to fairly represent both sides. Due to initial bias judgement, was neglectful when provided important information and proof provided by the side she favored less.

17 Nov, 2018 by John

I hired Rebecca to represent me in my divorce proceedings. It was clear from the beginning that she assumed that my case was, "just like all the others" and from the get go she was more interested in listening to the opposing counsel than me. The next attorney I hired to replace her confirmed that I was being completely under-represented and the differences in how they conducted business were stark. My next attorney helped me navigate the most challenging thing I have ever dealt with and I walked out of court knowing that I had won. Rebecca promised me that I would walk out of court feeling as though I had lost. She was very difficult to work with and my next attorney made things easy. Rebecca misled me and actually misrepresented my position out of spite after I challenged her on her conduct. Hiring her set me back on time and money and could have cost me custody of my children, which proved easy for my next attorney simply because I am a great father and just needed someone to represent me honestly. Rebecca was the wrong choice.

Herbert Conrad Humke

2124 Kohler Memorial Drive, Suite 110, Sheboygan, WI

Business Family Law Personal Injury +1 +4

2.0/5

2.0

5 Reviews

14 Jan, 2021 by Tammie

I hired Herb to handle my case. The experience was unfortunate. He wouldn't return phone calls. Though many messages were left, it sometimes took weeks. This made everything take so much longer than necessary; the case dragged on and on. Papers needing my signature came with my name misspelled. That was never corrected. For the final, legal, paperwork, I just crossed it out and rewrote it. He made me feel very insignificant . . . he was too busy to take my case seriously.

03 Dec, 2018 by Lee

I've been working with Attorney Humke for about a year. In all this time, I've found him to be professional and great at putting forth my best interests. The way I wanted to handle my case was by fighting it standing up instead of getting down in the muck. Attorney Humke has done an outstanding job of being direct and clear, striking hard when necessary, but being cautious and not overplaying his hand. Also, he reminds me of Sam the Eagle. I recommend him highly.

23 Aug, 2015 by Faith

My husband hired this attorney because he believed he had the reputation of his father, not the case. He was interested in us in the beginning but that changed during the process. He waited until the last moment to do things which he told us he was going to do the day we met with him,which we have in writing. This caused us to have to file for extensions which we feel we should not have been charged for since they were his mistakes. This happened more than once. He would not return calls, and made us feel as though we were not important clients. We asked for monthly statements, it took many months of asking before we received any. I would not recommend him .

Michael H. Oberndorfer

Bayshore Town Center, Milwaukee, WI

Real Estate +1

2.0/5

2.0

1 Reviews

21 Jun, 2013 by Rebecca

I would strongly recommend you get a contract at the time of hiring this lawyer. On the phone, he quoted $175 but when I received an itemized bill which was mailed after the second payment, the rate said $225. In addition, he is not able to handle partition of properties which is something to be aware of in cases where you may be forced to go to court. After paying $875 in fees with no more headway than prior to me hiring him, I terminated our relationship. I paid this amount more or less for him to speak to me and leave messages for the other client's lawyer (he spoke once to her). Do your research before hiring a lawyer. I'm on the hunt again but I've learned my lesson and will be asking for a contract at the time of hire along with expectations.

John C. Vitek

2060 N Humboldt Blvd Ste 225, Milwaukee, WI

Estate Planning Real Estate +2

2.0/5

2.0

1 Reviews

07 May, 2024 by Lisa

I hired Mr. Vitek for some fairly straightforward estate planning. I was satisfied with his work. He was not very professional and his constant suggestions that we go out for a glass of wine made me uncomfortable.

Patricia A. Zamba

24501 75th Street, Salem, WI

Criminal Defense Estate Planning Family Law +1 +4

2.0/5

2.0

1 Reviews

20 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous

Patricia, was nice but non aggressive. Many of my issuses and evidence she would not bring before the judge. She felt the judge didn't want to hear me "trash talk" the other party. But during the trail the judge didn't have a problem listening to the other party trash me, with hardly an objection from her. She felt the judge had already made his mind up about the outcome and attempt at a defence would only upset the Judge. In short, hire someone with more experience to handle your family court issuses. Don't waste your money or your chance in court by hiring Patricia.

Brent D. Skinner

406 Technology Dr E, Menomonie, WI

Business Family Law Probate +1 +4

2.0/5

2.0

1 Reviews

22 Mar, 2010 by Mary

I hired Mr. Skinner for the probate of my sister's estate. It was a very frustrating experience as I was told I had to spend a great deal of money on depositions and a handwriting expert only to never have the results entered into court because Mr.Skinner said I needed to settled, that was after he demanded another retainer or he would drop me as a client. I was left clueless and helpless because he said he got me to a settlement and would no longer need to represent me unless I now pay his new higher fee. There was still some unforseen situations that occured and I had no representation. For these reasons I would not recommend Mr. Skinner.

Vicki L. Schleisner

23 North Main Street, Janesville, WI

Estate Planning Probate Real Estate +3

2.0/5

2.0

1 Reviews

28 Jun, 2018 by Linda

Not upfront about fees. Takes weeks to get back to you. Cost over $3000 to file chapter 13 ,twice. And now instead of instead of being honest about my ability to convert 13 -7 for a much lesser amount. I have been advised to withdraw my chapter 13 and refile 7, therefor paying her an additional $1500. I work in the Title Loan industry , what she does isn't any different.

Gregg N. Guttormsen

6520 67th St, Kenosha, WI

Litigation Real Estate +2

2.0/5

2.0

1 Reviews

12 Mar, 2012 by Bob

Retained this attorney to resolve a real estate foreclosure issue. He stressed "fast action" was necessary and then wasted almost one month doing nothing. He did not keep me informed. I had to get the Wisconsin State Bar Association involved to get back my retainer, which he did not earn. In short, he was a complete waste of time and ruined our chances for successful resolution of this issue..

Jay D. Koritzinsky

414 D'Onofrio Dr # 300, Madison, WI

Real Estate +1

2.0/5

2.0

1 Reviews

17 Feb, 2010 by Anonymous

J Koritzinsky seems very personable and helpful when talking to him but he is just another schmoozing lawyer who will do whatever it takes to get money in his pocket and keep his status and position. At the end, did not return phone calls, was very abrupt and rude on the phone, and not willing to "listen" to entire story, just kept budding in and "telling" me what happened and "what" I did, rather than LISTENING to the entire story. He gets paid by apartment owners to do the dirty work they don't want to do, and he is a pitbull in a golden retriever costume.

Peter B. King

PO Box 374, Fontana, WI

Debt Collection Probate Real Estate +3

1.6/5

1.6

7 Reviews

28 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous

In the case of reading these reviews, it has been concluded that he has been just as rude as he was today since 2017. Peter has to be one of the most unprofessional lawyers out there, I called in regards to a case that was filed against me through small claims court, and he had stated that, somebody had tried to be in contact with me multiple times yet the notes that were provided did not correlate with my surroundings by any means, and when I explain that to him, he got defensive. When I started asking questions about everything, he had stated he is saying things, in as little of terms that my brain could possibly understand! 10/10 unprofessional.

04 May, 2021 by Anonymous

Made a call to his office on a debt that had been paid since 2017 never received the letter to take the Lien off my home now in the process of selling my home I am dealing with this anyone and wants another $50 to issue a letter that I never received. He was completely rude and unreasonable and hung up on me. I would never recommend someone to go to him for services.

10 Nov, 2020 by John

whatever you do do not call this guy! horrible arrogant and RUDE!!!! This person should not be allowed to answer the phone!!!! I can't believe he has any clients at all because any person would not be able to talk to him for more than three minutes without hanging up the phone obstinate and rude!

Francis M. Boyle Jr.

1926 Hall Ave, Marinette, WI

Business Probate Real Estate +3

1.6/5

1.6

3 Reviews

07 Aug, 2023 by Haven

Morrow, DeShea D was legit looking at automobiles for sale while in court defending one of her people. Literally paid some ridiculous amount for someone to be looking at automobiles in court, saying that theres nothing they could do. Do not recommend. Get a public defender instead.

16 Oct, 2022 by Tom white

09 Mar, 2022 by Mike

It is a joke I tell you of someone that is breaking the law and you tell me there is nothing you can do about it yes his name is Joseph graves and he is laying about his address he works at Hippo sub the address is 3008 shore drive please get him

Vytautas P. Salna

417 W Wisconsin St, Portage, WI

Family Law Government Probate +1 +4

1.5/5

1.5

8 Reviews

31 Jul, 2024 by Kory morgan

I can't disagree with the comments. I left a message asking nicely to return my call and have heard nothing. I realize he has a commitment to his clients. However it's just a return phone call.

05 Mar, 2024 by Jacob lutz

Horrible absolutely horrible

12 Jan, 2023 by Todd kading

Never answers phone, nobody at office. Just a professional Bill collector. Nothing good or positive to say about interactions with this being. Look at rating !!!! OMG!!! Have no lower rating just so you know.

Matthew J. Kaftan

3415 Commerce Ct, Appleton, WI

Business Estate Planning Real Estate +3

1.5/5

1.5

2 Reviews

17 Jan, 2024 by Scott

My parents utilized him as a lawyer. I have since called him multiple times, and he never ever calls back. I would not recommend him.

04 Jun, 2023 by Marci spencer

I was happy with the service my parents received in the beginning, but over the last couple of years, I have called multiple times needing a call back and have not received so much as one call back.

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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.

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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