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...
Residential Real Estate Closings
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...
What documents will I be asked to sign at my real estate closing?
If you've put in an offer on a Georgia home that's been accepted, then you may soon need to select an Augusta real estate attorney to handle your closing. That lawyer will be responsible for making sure that all documents are ready for and signed at the closing and...
What are some of the more common reasons for delayed closings?
It's quite common for you to have to select an attorney and for them to set a closing date soon after you enter into an agreement to either purchase or sell your home. What you may not realize is that the date often changes between the time when it's originally set...
Should buyers and sellers have their own attorney at a closing?
In Georgia, it's a requirement for all real estate closings to be presided over by an attorney. Your lawyer performs many of the same responsibilities that a title company in many other states may carry out. Attorneys can help both buyers and sellers in many ways that...
What should sellers bring to a residential real estate closing?
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or you've purchased a home before, it's unlikely that you're asked to attend a real estate closing every day. It can always help you to have a reminder of what you need to bring with you to the closing, especially if you're the...
What to expect at the closing of your home purchase
When you decide it's time to buy a home, you will probably be flush with emotions. You may be nervous about the amount of money you are committing and worried that something will be found in the inspection. Once all the worry subsides, it's time to move forward with...