While Ohio real estate law does not require you to have a real estate attorney, there are certain situations in which hiring an attorney may be a good idea. When purchasing a property that has any developments of common interest, it can be difficult for the average consumer to distinguish which parts of the property are for the exclusive use of an individual versus the parts for community use. Developments of mutual interest, such as condominiums, may have ongoing lawsuits that may have a negative impact on the future value of the property. A real estate attorney can explain the potential consequences of ongoing litigation, so you can make an informed decision about whether you want to invest in property. A real estate attorney can also help make sure the property’s title deed is good before a buyer closes the sale.
Try to find an attorney recommended by someone you trust, such as a friend or family member. Never choose a real estate attorney based on the recommendation of your real estate agent. However, you may be able to find a lawyer who is also a licensed realtor.
You should ensure that your attorney specializes in real estate law by reviewing state and local bar associations and landlord associations. The American College of Real Estate Lawyers (ACREL) website provides links to members by state, and it has many members from Ohio.
Most attorneys will answer initial questions for free. List your questions and use this list to help you find an attorney who you think will represent your interests in an efficient and ethical manner. Before making a final decision, ask about the attorney’s fee. Some real estate attorneys will work for a fixed fee on more obvious cases.