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Real estate law covers buying, selling, leasing, and disputes over property — residential and commercial. In some states a lawyer is required to close a home sale; in others it's optional but often worthwhile for anything non-routine.
Engage a real estate lawyer before signing a purchase contract or commercial lease, when a title problem surfaces, or any time a deal is unusual — seller financing, a short sale, or a property with liens.
Routine closings are typically a flat fee; leases and disputes are usually hourly. Ask whether title and recording costs are included or billed separately.
