Fort Lauderdale Closing & Title Insurance Lawyer
Some states require that you use an attorney during your real estate transaction; however, Florida isn’t one of them. While there is no law requiring you to retain an attorney, you have the option to do so or use a title company to handle the transaction. Since Florida doesn’t mandate the use of an attorney, some people wonder why they need to hire one for the closing. Here’s a look at why you should consider hiring a Fort Lauderdale closing & title insurance lawyer rather than rely on a title company.
Your Real Estate Attorney Works for You
A title company is not your legal advocate. They work for the title insurer, not you or the other party to the contract. A real estate attorney, like Edward J. Jennings, P.A., will work directly for whoever hires them. Your attorney is your legal advocate and will protect your rights throughout the process. The title company’s primary concern is to prepare all the closing documents that the title insurer needs to finalize the transaction.
Title Companies Can’t Provide Legal Advice
In almost all cases, the person you are working with at a title company has no legal background, let alone a license to practice law. Therefore, they cannot answer any questions if there’s a legal question that comes up. They are prohibited from giving legal advice. One of the most common issues is how to get title to the property, which has potential tax and other legal ramifications. The title agent cannot give you advice on how to proceed, whereas your attorney can. Most legal issues could develop, and you would be left trying to figure out how to navigate these challenges on your own without legal counsel on your side.
Title Agents Can’t Fix Documents
If there is a problem, you may need to obtain corrective documents. Your attorney can provide legal advice and direct you on how best to handle this situation. They can also prepare these documents if needed. A title agent cannot do any of this. They may need to send people out to hire an attorney to handle any problems that arise. Why not have an attorney from the start and streamline the process. If you use a title company and then need to hire a lawyer, it can delay the closing or even cause the transaction to fall apart entirely.
Hiring an Attorney is Comparable Cost Wise
It may surprise you to learn that hiring a title agent could run you the same amount as hiring an attorney. Florida law sets the guidelines on closing costs no matter whether it’s a title agent or lawyer handling the case. Your attorney can actually save you money in some situations as they are performing double duty by working as your attorney and a title agent. A title agent cannot work as an attorney, so you would still need to hire someone if a problem develops.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Closing and Title Insurance Lawyer
If you’re the buyer or seller in a real estate transaction, consider hiring a Fort Lauderdale closing and title insurance lawyer now. Being proactive can save you both headaches and money. To learn more about how we can help, contact Edward J. Jennings, P.A., today to schedule a consultation.
