Is An Attorney Really Necessary???

Q: We just put an offer on a house in Jersey. Our past home purchases have been in California where it is rare for attorneys to be involved. The Jersey real estate contracts seems to be cut-and-dry and uncomplicated. We are not novices in the real estate world, we have sold our own home successfully in a state which reeks with law suits. Any response would be appreciated.

A: -It would be a good idea to retain an attorney. I am a real estate broker in New Jersey and would not recommend anyone to proceed in the transaction without one. Things come up. And, you, while you have experience purchasing properties in the past, you may run into situations where you may need legal advise. If your interest is in saving money, don't be penny wise and pound foolish. An alternative to obtaining a real estate attorney off the bat, is to work with a title company who will put you in touch with an attorney. The attorney will work at a reduced rate at the advice of the title company. The attorney will review your contract, help negotiate on inspection issues, and be there should problems arise. If you would like to names of title companies you can email me. Bob Bruckner at bobrea...@prodigy.net and I would be happy to provide you with a list. You should also be advised that if you are purchasing a home from a broker, they should have given you an Opinion 26 letter with the contract of sale. This letter explains what you need to know with respect to title companies and attorneys. Don't assume you know

it all. I have been selling real estate for 12 years, and I learn something new every d -I too am closing on a house in NJ, where I too found it very odd that attorneys were used. Having bought my previous homes in Texas where again title companies are used instead of attorneys. Having talked to the attorney recommended by the mortgage company only twice, and knowing what he is going to charge me (about $500 more than what a title company would have), I can't say that I'm all that impressed with the way real estate transactions are handled in the NJ area. However, on the brighter side, everything has seemed to go without a hitch, so there are at least some benefits.