Legal Question in Real Estate Law in New Jersey

Re: Buying a house in NJ.

I live in and have an extensive Essex County real estate practice, if you need, and should have, a local attorney. Closing fees, if the closing takes place at my office, presuming no complications, are about $750, plus the usual costs for title search, insurance, etc. and bank closing costs and escrows. Where in Essex County are you looking, as I may have contacts there as well. Contact me directly if you wish to discuss this is more detail.

Re: Buying a house in NJ.

Well said. Yes, you do need a lawyer. The buyer in a real estate transaction is most in need of legal representation because the buyer is left with the results. The seller only wants to give the deed and get the money.

As a buyer, you should look for the following things:

1. Conforming property in accordance with your contract. There is a 3-say attorney review period. From your question, I surmise that you have not taken advantage of this. Too bad. I'll chastise you at a later time. After all isn't this the highest value purchase that you will make in a long time? If developers need representation, why shouldn't you.

2. Title and title insurance. In New Jersey it is the custom for the buyer to purchase title insurance. In many respects, the title company is your best friend because they will exclude any problems with title and that will point them out to you.

3. A conforming survey.

4. A conforming deed.

5. A morgage that meets you needs

I would be pleased to represent you in this transaction and Essex County is not too far for me. However, I suggest to you that you might do (somewhat) as well by finding local counsel. If you are moving into a new area, it is not a bad idea to have a relationship with a local attorney. One way to build this relationship is to employ him/her to represent you in your purchase transaction. Unless you have a very difficult transaction, the difference in fees would probably be negligible. One source of attorney referrals is your county Lawyer Referral Service 973-533-6775. A better source, and the one that I would use in your position, is to call your title company. Ask to speak with the senior title examiner and ask her (probably a her) for her recommendation. Independent title companies deal with lawyers on an almost hourly basis. The most dilligent, competent and courteous attorneys stand out to them. Get a consultation with whomever they recommend and trust your gut feeling.