Buying a home is one of the most important decisions you can make as an adult. Sometimes, the legal side of this purchase can be a bit complicated. In transferring ownership of property from one person to another, a closing attorney can help close the gaps smoothly.
In the state of Florida, it is not required to hire an attorney to close on a new home. In most cases, the buyer and seller negotiate between their real estate brokers. However, a closing attorney can speed up this process while protecting your best interests. If you happen to be purchasing a foreclosure, for example, there are additional concerns that aren’t an issue when buying a home, the traditional way.
For example, how can you know if any defects in the home will affect your ownership rights? What if the previous owner’s mortgage was fraudulent?
A closing attorney can help you manage these complicated areas, should they arise. And when you’re buying a home, there’s no such thing as being too prepared or too careful. You are free to choose the right person to represent you during this important transaction. An attorney experienced in closings can provide peace of mind during a process that, while exciting, can also be somewhat stressful.
The Closing Process
In Florida, numerous documents need to be drawn up to prepare for the closing process. There’s the purchase and sale contracts, transfer deed, closing statements, and a document describing the costs involved with the sale of the home.
You can choose a qualified attorney specializing in closing laws to increase your protection during this process, ensuring that the transaction goes smoothly. The best part is that you can probably move into your new home sooner rather than later.
The Seller’s Choice
As the buyer, you’ll want to check with your closing attorney that there are no defects in the home title. The seller has the responsibility of providing good title free from liens and other defects, and your attorney can ensure that they followed through on their end. If there are any issues that come up, your attorney can help you resolve them quickly.
Who gets to choose the closing agent varies from county to county here in Florida. Usually, the party paying for the title insurance gets to choose the closing agent. In Broward and Miami-Dade Counties, the buyer pays for the title insurance and chooses the title/closing agent. However, In Palm Beach County and many other counties, the seller pays for the title insurance and chooses the closing agent. In either case, you are smart to have an experienced attorney in your corner watching out for your interests and guiding and guiding you during the entire process. While you have the ability to choose a closing agent, you also have the responsibility to pay for additional costs. This includes retainer fees and any additional tasks related to the closing process.
Find an Experienced Closing Attorney in Coral Springs
The experienced attorneys at Handin Law are highly qualified to represent the interests of both buyers and sellers in the state of Florida. We will guide you through every step of the transaction, helping you avoid risks and protect your financial interests. If at any point you have questions about documents or contracts you’re asked to sign, we can explain each item to you, so you are fully informed.
Gary I. Handin, P.A., has proudly served the residents of south Florida for over 50 years. We have many years of experience in real estate law, title insurance and other areas of expertise, including business law, wills and trusts, probate, and more. If you have questions or concerns about your closing process, call us today at 954-796-9600.