Q: My friend bought
a place without an attorney. Why do I need one?
A: The same reason you need a real estate agent, and an inspector. We
are your team working together for you. You are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on a home. It's the biggest
investment you will ever make. Don't you think it's worth the extra money to make sure your interests (and earnest
money) are protected?
Q: What about fees? I know an attorney who will close my property for much less.
A:
First of all, there are many attorneys out there that charge more than I do, and many that charge less. I focus on personal
service. I am the only person you will ever speak to. You will never deal with a secretary or paralegal who may or may not
know the details of your file. I am accessible most of the time even outside business hours and I check voicemail and e-mail
frequently. As they say, you get what you pay for.
Q: What about if I change my mind after I've signed the
Contract?
A: Technically, once you sign the Contract, it is legally binding. You should treat it as such. If there are
instances that arise where you need to terminate the Contract, those instances are treated on a case-by-case basis.
Q: What about the loan process? What should I be aware of?
A: Part of my responsibility is to assist you with tracking
your mortgage contingency deadline that is in the Contract. Make sure that you are comfortable with the broker or bank that
you choose, and that your point person is accessible and willing to answer questions. Also, get it in writing. The law requires
that anyone offering you a mortgage provide you with a Good Faith Estimate and Truth in Lending statement outlining all the
costs associated with the loan and whether there is a pre-payment penalty. Be wary of someone who will not provide you these
items.