You need a real estate attorney for a real estate closing. Litigators have an entirely different expertise. On the other hand, you cannot safely buy or own real estate in a legal vacuum! Lawyers, who have studied the entire body of American law for 3 years, will be able to protect your rights far more that a lay person, banker, or title agent whose only claim to expertise is having done closings for their previous customers. What they don’t know can hurt you!

Our closing fees are typically 10-25% higher than fees charged by non lawyers to conduct closings, but the differences are dramatic! Only a lawyer owes you a duty of loyalty as a client; to a non-lawyer, you are a customer and the principle of “buyer beware” may well apply.

In Virginia, only a lawyer engaged in the private practice of law can represent you. Non-lawyers basically show you where to sign documents and are committing a violation of law if they attempt to give legal advice without a law license. If you simply must save money, consider using one of our affiliated notary only signing services.

The title insurance process involves a thorough search of public records to identify any issues or defects with the property title. Once the search is complete, an underwriter will evaluate the findings and issue a title insurance policy. This policy provides coverage for the buyer or lender against any claims or legal fees that may arise from title defects discovered after the purchase.

Owner’s title insurance protects the buyer’s interest in the property, covering the full purchase price. Lender’s title insurance, on the other hand, protects the lender’s financial interest, typically up to the amount of the mortgage. While lender’s title insurance is usually required by mortgage lenders, owner’s title insurance is optional but highly recommended for comprehensive protection.

The real estate closing process involves several steps to finalize the purchase of a property. These steps include:

• Reviewing and signing legal documents, such as the deed and mortgage agreement.
• Verifying that all terms of the sales contract have been met.
• Transferring funds to the appropriate parties.
• Recording the transaction with the local government to make the transfer of ownership official. Pittman & Associates will guide you through each step, ensuring a smooth and efficient closing process.

The duration of a real estate closing can vary, but it typically takes 30 to 60 days from the acceptance of the offer to the closing date. Factors that can affect the timeline include the complexity of the transaction, the efficiency of the title search, and the responsiveness of all parties involved. Our team at Pittman & Associates works diligently to expedite the process and address any potential delays.

For the real estate closing, you should bring:

• A government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport).
• Proof of homeowner’s insurance.
• A cashier’s check or proof of wire transfer for any closing costs or down payments.
• Any required documents requested by your lender or attorney.
• Your personal checkbook for any unexpected expenses. Our team will provide you with a detailed list of required documents and ensure you are fully prepared for the closing day.

Let our experienced staff walk you through the process from beginning to end,
including the signing of your financial documents the day of closing!

Our staff understands the importance of reacting quickly to “small windows of
opportunity” and will expedite the closing process to meet your deadlines!

Not to worry; our fees are paid at the time you close on the purchase or sale of a
property. We offer other numerous, real estate related services on a flat or hourly
rate. A fee schedule is available upon request.

Just call or email us at RELS. We will work around your schedule; Saturday and
evening hours are available upon request. More often than not, your first
consultation will be FREE of charge and will provide an opportunity to plan and
discuss fees openly! If your first consultation is billable, you will know prior to your appointment.

Lawyers, who have studied the entire body of American law for three years, will
be able to protect your rights far more than a lay person, banker, or title agent
whose only claim to expertise is having done closings for their previous
customers. WHAT THEY DON’T KNOW CAN HURT YOU! In Virginia,
only a lawyer engaged in the private practice of law can represent you as a client. Non-lawyers basically show you where to sign documents and are committing a violation of law if they attempt to give legal advice without a law licence.