It is important to hire an attorney when you are buying or selling a home so that you can get a more complete understanding of what you are getting yourself into. Most realtors do a fantastic job listing properties for sellers and finding properties for buyers, but beyond that point, they are not as big of an asset to you as you might expect. Unless they also happen to be an attorney, realtors are not licensed to practice law, so they are not able to explain the pros and cons of different contract terms to you. Although most contracts are form contracts, it matters greatly what terms are slipped into the blanks or riders. Realtors are also not able to give you an idea of the liability risks you are facing.
Although the scope of their services is limited, realtors are always well compensated (most often deservingly so). Because realtor commissions can add up, we are actually seeing a lot of buyers and sellers working without a real estate agent. We think both parties to a real estate transaction should always consult with an attorney, but it becomes especially critical to do so in for sale by owner (FSBO) situations. Although the necessary forms are available online, and it is possible to do-it-yourself, each home has enough quirks that consulting with an attorney is not only valuable but also necessary. As attorneys it is our job to make sure that as our client you are aware of the quirks and that you are negotiating with them in mind.
Our firm puts all of our clients on a pedestal, but we go out of our way to make first time buyers and sellers feel comfortable with the real estate process. We explain each step of the process in detail, taking time to translate legalese into English and explain what each and every acronym means. We also stress that we are available 24/7 to answer any and all questions. There really is no silly question when you are dealing with what is one of the largest decisions and biggest investments of your life.
OFFICES IN ALBANY, CLIFTON PARK, SARATOGA SPRINGS AND GLENS FALLS
If you are buying or selling a home in Eastern Upstate New York in the Albany, Troy, Glen Falls or Clifton Park NY areas, we want to be your legal advisors. We are responsive and respectful when our clients have a question; our rates are very competitive; and we are always ready to move fast when a deal needs to be done quickly. Ianniello Anderson, P.C. has offces in Albany, Saratoga Springs, Glens Falls and Clifton Park. We are conveniently located for closings and we serve clients from over the entire Albany, Amsterdam, Glens Falls, Schenectady, Saratoga, and Troy metropolitan areas.
