Real estate attorneys can represent either buyers or sellers in a transaction. They can also help resolve disputes between landlords and tenants, negotiate leases, and enforce zoning regulations.

While most real estate transactions go smoothly, there are always potential risks involved. A real estate attorney can help you mitigate these risks by ensuring that all the necessary paperwork is in order and by providing guidance on complex legal issues. Here are five ways a real estate attorney can help you:

1. Reviewing and Negotiating Contracts 

The first way a real estate attorney can help you protect your interests is by reviewing and negotiating contracts. Any time you are entering into a binding agreement, it's important to have an attorney review the terms to make sure they are fair and protect your interests. An attorney can also help negotiate better terms on your behalf. This ensures that the contract is clear and unambiguous, and that you understand your rights and obligations under the agreement.

2. Performing Title Searches and Clearing Title Issues 

A real estate attorney can also help clear up any title issues that may exist on a property you are considering purchasing. This includes conducting a title search to ensure there are no liens or encumbrances on the property, and clearing any title defects that may exist. This is important because it ensures that you will have good title to the property when you purchase it, and that there are no outstanding legal claims against the property.

3. Handling Escrow, Closings and Post-Closing Matters 

Once a contract is negotiated and signed, there are a number of steps that need to be completed before the deal is officially closed. An experienced real estate attorney can handle all of the details and make sure the closing goes smoothly. Additionally, if any problems arise after the closing, an attorney can help resolve them.

4. Addressing Zoning, Land Use and Environmental Concerns 

If you are purchasing property for commercial development, there may be zoning restrictions that need to be taken into account. This includes helping you obtain the necessary permits and approvals for your project, and making sure that the project complies with all applicable laws and regulations. Additionally, if there are any environmental concerns with the property, an attorney can help you determine what needs to be done to address those concerns.

5. Providing Counsel on Mortgage Financing Options 

This includes helping you understand the different types of loans available, and choosing the best loan for your situation. An attorney can also help negotiate better terms on your behalf, and represent you in any litigation that may arise from the loan.

If you are considering purchasing or selling real estate, or are involved in any other type of real estate transaction, it's important to have a real estate attorney on your side. An attorney can help protect your interests and ensure that the transaction goes smoothly.