If you are involved in buying or selling a home or other property, it may be a good idea to hire a real estate attorney. A lawyer can prepare any required legal documents, help you understand all related contracts, and protect your rights throughout the transaction. An attorney who specializes in real estate is likely to have a more thorough understanding of what is involved than a general practitioner. Here are a few tips about how to find a good real estate attorney.

Ask Friends for Referrals

It is important to find a lawyer who is known to be trustworthy and dedicated to providing a high quality of service. You can go online and find a real estate attorney in five minutes, but you run the risk that this person will not have that dedication. The best way to ensure that you get a good attorney is to ask trusted friends and relatives for referrals. Talk to people who have previously used a local real estate attorney and ask about their experiences.

Qualities to Look For

When considering a lawyer, there are a few things you should find out. A good lawyer is knowledgeable and competent, but knowledge of real estate is not necessarily the most important quality to look for. A trusted family lawyer without much experience in real estate may have the dedication to get the job done better than a knowledgeable real estate attorney who is too busy to give your transaction the attention it deserves.

When you get referrals from friends, here are a few questions to ask:

• Did the lawyer return phone calls and emails in a timely manner? Don’t bother with a lawyer who does not have time for you?
• Was the lawyer willing to listen to your concerns and ideas?
• Were all contracts adequately explained to you?
• Did this person demonstrate knowledge about real estate issues?
  

Other Ways to Find a Lawyer

If none of your friends or relatives can provide you with a good referral, there are other ways to find a lawyer. Your real estate agent may be able to recommend someone or at least assist you in your search. If all else fails, look in your local phone book or online directories for lawyers who advertise a specialty in real estate. Do your research and set up consultations with at least three (3) lawyers before making your final decision.