2017complete3
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
sure to also do some independent verification to ensure that the lawyer is<br />
not dependent on the agent for business or otherwise biased in the agent’s<br />
favor, and that the agent is not receiving any commission or other benefit<br />
from the referral. (The same applies to any other type of professional your<br />
agent recommends.)<br />
• Choose a lawyer who will be responsive to your calls.<br />
• If you work full-time, consider whether off-hours availability, such as<br />
Sundays or evenings, is important to you. You may also want to find out<br />
whether the lawyer maintains a staff who will be able to answer your questions<br />
in his or her absence.<br />
• Make sure you are comfortable asking your lawyer for clarification of any<br />
point, no matter how foolish it may seem to you. If you are intimidated or<br />
don’t feel you are being taken seriously, the lawyer is not for you.<br />
• Does the lawyer meet buyers face-to-face for the initial contract review?<br />
If yes, how long do those meetings typically last?<br />
What services will your attorney provide?<br />
The lawyer will review the purchase contract and negotiate on your behalf to<br />
revise any items he feels are not in your best interest.<br />
Typically, the lawyer also orders the title search and works with the seller’s<br />
lawyer to clear any title concerns. Once the title and mortgage are settled, the<br />
lawyer will review the closing documents provided by the seller to ensure you<br />
are receiving everything necessary. He or she will also file the deed with the<br />
county clerk to register the sale.<br />
If the home inspection or any other process discover any defects in the<br />
home, your lawyer will attempt to negotiate a credit against the purchase<br />
price to cover the cost of repairs. However, be aware that in a strong seller’s<br />
market, the lawyer will not necessarily have enough leverage to negotiate<br />
effectively with the seller. It is not advisable to leave the inspection for late<br />
in the process and hope things work out; it may even be worthwhile to order<br />
an inspection on a home you are seriously considering even before signing<br />
the contract.<br />
Your lawyer will attend the closing with you and walk you through the process<br />
to ensure nothing is skipped and you understand everything.<br />
64 | 2017 Lakewood Home Buyer’s Guide
Change language