Real Estate Lawyer FAQ, Info???
Q: Is there a FAQ on Real Estate Law / Lawyers? I'm about to be a first time home buyer. I've made an offer and it's been accepted. We go to closing later this month. I have heard repeatedly that one should have a lawyer when buying a home. I'm not clear on why I would need one, but I want to play it safe. The house seems straightforward - I'm buying from the original owner; it's a tract home and in good condition. I retained my real estate agent as a buyer's agent. I'll be having the usual inspections and title searches done. The transaction is in Texas. Do I need a lawyer for this? If I get one, what particular expertise am I looking for? I've been searching for a FAQ that addresses this, but I came up dry.
A: I can't answer the specific question, but there are some sources of information that may be able to start answering your questions 1) Most title companies will provide literature on the benefits of title insurance . . . most of the defects they protect against are enforced throught litigation . . . your lawyer should make sure you aren't inadvertantly falling into any of those risk areas 2) Most state bar associations have literature on perils and pitfalls of certain types of transactions, and I am sure real estate is generally one of the first ones written. If you can find a phone number for the Texas bar association, then they may be able to provide some information prepared by their real property