Hiring a seller’s attorney in MA is not required. However, there are many important reasons why sellers should consider doing so. Below is a summary of the benefits of hiring a MA real estate seller’s attorney for your home sale transaction.
Review of Purchase & Sales
In the state of MA, sellers typically prepare the initial purchase and sales agreement. A seller’s real estate agent often assists with this by filling out standard P&S forms provided by their local Board of Realtors. However, the standard form includes only basic terms and conditions. It does not include additional language that can further protect a seller’s interest. Furthermore, it may not take into account the unique factors of your particular transaction.
A MA real estate seller’s attorney can draft a comprehensive addendum to protect your rights and to account for unique aspects of your dealings with the buyer. Also, a buyer’s attorney may present their own addendum that should be reviewed by a legal professional representing your interests. Real estate agents are not allowed to practice law and are therefore prohibited from assisting you with reviewing such addenda.
Closing Preparation
There are other tasks that must be completed before closing that are outside of the realm of real estate agent responsibilities. This includes providing certain information to the buyer’s lender, obtaining mortgage payoff figures for your existing mortgages, and preparing the deed. Working with a MA real estate seller’s attorney can help streamline this process.
Addressing Issues
We all hope for smooth real estate transactions, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Unexpected issues often arise, requiring you to evaluate your legal options. Your seller’s attorney can offer you the necessary guidance and negotiate on your behalf.
Attending Closings
Selling a home can be a bit stressful as you coordinate timelines for moving out of your existing home and into a new one. If you are both buying and selling a home simultaneously, it can be difficult to coordinate everything for the same day. You may also struggle with taking time off from work to attend both closings. Imagine the added stress of long distance moves! Your MA seller’s attorney can actually attend the closing on your behalf for your home sale. This would alleviate a tremendous amount of stress.
More on the Benefits of Hiring a MA Real Estate Seller’s Attorney
By hiring a MA real estate seller’s attorney, you can have the peace of mind that you are making sound legal decisions when it comes to your home sale. Whether it be reviewing the terms of your purchase and sales agreement or dealing with issues that arise before or during closing, it is critical to know and protect your rights. Legal disputes between buyers and sellers can be costly. What takes place between parties during the transaction can minimize the chances of a lawsuit later on. This with the added convenience of other tasks that your attorney can assist with, it really is worthwhile to hire a MA real estate seller’s attorney when selling a home.
