When in doubt during a real estate transaction, most people consult their real estate agent or broker. However, if the deal is risky or complicated, it is wise to consult a real estate lawyer in Angola, Indiana. When choosing an attorney, ask the following questions to ensure the proper match.
How Long Has the Attorney Practiced?
Before hiring a lawyer, it is beneficial to determine how much practical experience they have. If a client needs help with something simple such as a purchase agreement, maybe they can get by with someone who only has a couple of years of experience. However, if the real estate transaction is complex, it’s good to choose an attorney with 10 to 15 years of experience.
How Many Similar Cases Has the Firm Handled?
Every real estate transaction is unique. Before hiring an attorney, it is important for the client to ask if they have dealt with similar transactions before. If they have, they will better be able to predict the potential problems and stop them before they start. People can get personal referrals by asking attorneys in other fields for recommendations. Alternatively, they can ask neighbors or friends for references as well.
How Will the Case Be Handled?
It’s reasonable for a client to ask a lawyer for an overview of what they plan to do. In fact, this step can help the client determine which attorneys are knowledgeable about the intricacies of real estate law. An experienced real estate attorney can provide a rough outline of what needs to be done during a transaction.
How Is Billing Done?
Learning about an attorney’s fee schedule can help clients avoid costly and unpleasant surprises in the future. Most real estate lawyers work for an hourly fee, which means they charge a certain amount for every hour spent working on the case. The average hourly fee can range from $100 to $200, but for simple transactions, a client may be able to negotiate a flat fee.
After asking the questions above, it’s important for the client to choose a lawyer with whom they are comfortable. Anyone in need of help buying or selling a home can consult a real estate lawyer in Angola, Indiana with us.
