As a first-time homebuyer, it’s important to know what to expect. Throughout this process, you’re likely to run into issues you never thought about, like having to run a title search or needing to hire someone to perform an inspection. You’ll have at least one, if not...
Residential Real Estate Closings
Property disclosures protect real estate agents and their clients
Thousands of real properties change hands every month in Georgia. People get married and need a house in which to start a family or reach retirement age and are ready to downsize their living space. Landlords buy new properties to increase their revenue, and family...
Do you need to include a contingency in your home purchase offer?
Excitement and enthusiasm often rule the home buying process. Once you find that perfect property, you want to make an offer, close as quickly as possible and start moving in to your new home. Your joy at finding a home in the right school district or with all the...
Does your dream home have a judgement lien?
Whether due to medical bills, credit card balances, student loans or something else, many Americans are swimming in debt. In fact, according to a recent estimate, the average person owes more than $90,000. If individuals do not stay on top of this debt, creditors may...
Common legal issues that can compromise real estate closing
Homebuyers and sellers rely on their realtor to manage the complications associated with this major transaction. As you represent your client as a real estate agent, you must ensure that closing goes smoothly and help prevent unexpected snags. Familiarize yourself...
Can someone fire a real estate agent right before a sale?
Real estate agents are hired on the behalf of potential home buyers, who then trust the agents to find homes that fit their criteria and set up showings. When the home changes hands, the agent makes money based on a percentage of the sale price. Typically, both sides...
Do ‘for sale by owner” closings need an attorney?
Although realtors generally only earn a small commission on the sale of their clients' homes, many financially savvy homeowners set out to try to sell their homes themselves to save some money. What many Georgians who pursue the "for sale by owner" option don't...
Why should you attend the final walk-through before your closing?
If you're in the market to buy a home, you've likely heard of walk-throughs and home inspections. What you may not realize is that they're not the same. The purpose of a final walk-through is to allow you to confirm that the property is in the same condition now as...
What to know before closing on a homeowner’s association home
Homeowner's associations (HOAs) have become a significant part of communities and neighborhoods in Georgia and across the U.S. in the last 20 years. You're probably aware that you're subject to certain restrictions once you move into such a community as this. What you...
Can real estate closings be delayed?
Delays to a property closing can happen for several reasons. There may be a defective title, causing the lender to request additional information. A home inspector may discover that there's been an infestation of pests and that repairs are needed. An appraisal may...