What Does a Real Estate Attorney Do?

A real estate attorney specializes in legal matters related to property transactions. They help clients navigate the complexities of buying, selling, or leasing real estate, ensuring that contracts and negotiations are legally sound. Attorneys also handle title searches, address zoning or boundary issues, and resolve disputes in court if they arise. 

Overall, a real estate attorney protects your interests and ensures a smooth, legally compliant transaction. Real estate attorneys are required in many states, but even if you aren't legally required to use an attorney, it can be a good idea to have an attorney on your side.

What does a real estate attorney do for buyers?

A real estate attorney helps buyers review and negotiate the purchase agreement, ensures the title is clear, and confirms that necessary disclosures are provided. They coordinate with the lender, prepare or review closing documents, and ensure that funds are transferred properly. If any issues arise before or during closing, the attorney steps in to resolve them and protect the buyer’s interests.

Review and negotiate the purchase agreement

A real estate attorney examines contracts such as the purchase agreement, mortgage documents, and disclosures to ensure your rights are protected. They can also draft or revise these documents to reflect terms favorable to you.

Conduct a title search and resolve title issues

Attorneys perform a title search to confirm the seller has legal ownership and that the property is free of liens or claims. This step helps prevent future legal disputes or financial surprises.

Verify compliance with local zoning and land use laws

Your attorney ensures that the property’s current and intended use complies with local zoning regulations and land use restrictions. This step helps prevent future legal issues, such as fines or limits on renovations, business operations, or property expansions.

Coordinate with lenders and handle legal disclosures

Your attorney coordinates with your lender to review key documents like loan agreements to ensure all financing terms are clear and accurate. They must also ensure that all legal disclosures, like lead paint, flood zone status, or any known defects, are properly resolved to avoid any closing-day surprises. 

Prepare and review closing documents

Your attorney prepares and carefully reviews the final paperwork required to complete the transaction, including the settlement statement, deed, mortgage documents, and affidavits. They ensure everything is accurate, legally sound, and in your best interest before you sign.

Represent you at closing and address last-minute issues

At closing, your attorney reviews all final documents, ensures accurate transfer of funds, and confirms the title is properly conveyed to you. If any last-minute issues arise, they can promptly address them to keep the process on track.

What does a real estate attorney do for sellers?

A seller’s attorney represents their client to ensure a smooth and legally sound home sale. They review the purchase contract, communicate and negotiate terms, resolve issues, and facilitate the closing process to prevent mishaps.

Review contracts

Real estate attorneys help sellers understand the terms of the purchase contract and ensure it aligns with their goals. They confirm the title is clear, required disclosures are in place, and local regulations are met. Whether it’s spotting hidden contingencies or addressing unclear language, they work to prevent unwanted surprises at closing.

When last-minute issues pop up, like buyer disputes, title defects, or questions about contract obligations, your attorney steps in to resolve them quickly while keeping your sale on track.

Negotiating and closing support

From the initial offer to the closing table, real estate attorneys provide essential guidance to sellers. They review the terms of the sales contract, flag contingencies that could impact your timeline or bottom line, and suggest negotiation strategies that protect your interests.

On closing day, your attorney ensures the settlement statement is accurate, confirms the buyer’s funds are in order, and verifies that all legal documents, like the deed and payoff statements, are correctly prepared. With their support, you can feel confident that your sale is final, legal, and smooth.

Protecting peace of mind

Selling your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, and it can come with high stakes. A real estate attorney acts as your trusted advisor, guiding you through legal complexities so you can focus on what’s next. From reviewing contracts to resolving last-minute issues, they help ensure that no detail is missed and no risks are left unchecked.

Whether you're moving to another state, downsizing, or upgrading, having an attorney in your corner means you can close with confidence, knowing everything has been handled with care and precision.

How to find a real estate attorney

Like any professional relationship, finding the right lawyer to represent you in a transaction is key. Here are some common ways buyers and sellers find their real estate attorneys:

1. Ask for referrals

From your agent: Experienced real estate agents often have a list of attorneys they work with regularly and recommend. They may even have a referral for an attorney who is an expert in your specific type of sale.

From a friend: Ask colleagues, family members, friends, or neighbors who they used in their home sales. The Zillow 2024 Consumer Housing Trends Report indicates that buyers often rely on their personal networks when making decisions related to their home purchase.

2. Leverage local resources

In addition to referrals, consider tapping into local resources. Your city or county bar association often maintains a directory of licensed real estate attorneys in your area. Local community boards, neighborhood social media groups, and even your lender may suggest reputable professionals nearby. Using local resources ensures your attorney is familiar with regional regulations and common practices, which can help prevent delays or surprises during your transaction.

3. Check online reviews

The internet puts a wealth of customer reviews at your fingertips, even for lawyers. Check Zillow’s directory of professionals, Yelp, Google, and other review sites to find reviews on the real estate lawyer you're considering. As you browse reviews, ensure you can answer the following questions:

How much experience do they have?

Look for reviews or profiles that mention how long the lawyer has been practicing, particularly in real estate law. Clients often note whether the attorney handled similar cases successfully.

What are their qualifications? 

Pay attention to overall ratings and specific feedback. Consistently positive comments about professionalism, responsiveness, and successful outcomes are good signs.

Do they have good reviews? Some reviewers may mention free or paid initial consultations. This can be a helpful way to evaluate the lawyer before committing to their services.

Do they offer consultation services? Look for reviews that mention whether the lawyer provides an initial consultation, either free or for a fee. This can give you a low-risk opportunity to ask questions and determine if they’re the right fit for your needs.

How much does a real estate attorney cost?

Real estate attorneys’ fees will vary based on your market and the attorney’s involvement in the transaction. Many charge a flat rate, which can range between $500 to $1,500 per transaction*. Other attorneys charge hourly, ranging from $250 to $350 per hour. 

*Based on February 2025 data, as reported by Thumbtack.