Real Estate Law
Real estate law governs how land and buildings are bought, sold, financed, leased and used. Much of it is state and local law, and some states require a lawyer at every closing.
What Does Real Estate Law Cover?
A property transaction runs on a purchase contract, a title search, financing documents and a deed recorded with the county. Real estate attorneys review and negotiate contracts, clear title defects, handle closings and resolve boundary, easement and zoning disputes. The field also covers landlord-tenant relationships, homeowners association conflicts, construction defects, and foreclosure, where state law decides whether the lender must go through court.
Buying and Selling
Contracts, title and closings, such as:
Renting
Leases, deposits and evictions, such as:
Building and Repairs
Contractors, defects and liens, such as:
Land Use
Zoning, environmental rules and government action, such as:
Property and Family
Homes in divorces and estates, such as:
Real Estate Law Lawyers in Your State
State law decides deadlines, forms and procedure, so start with the state where your matter is. Each page lists local attorneys and the cities where they work.
- Alabama31
- Alaska9
- Arizona49
- Arkansas24
- California237
- Colorado48
- Connecticut79
- Florida147
- Hawaii45
- Idaho37
- Illinois116
- Indiana33
- Iowa38
- Kansas24
- Kentucky36
- Louisiana24
- New Jersey182
- New York360
- Texas82
When Do You Need a Real Estate Law Lawyer?
In some states an attorney must handle or supervise every closing; in others title companies do most of the work. Hire a lawyer when the contract is unusual, the property has title or boundary problems, you buy commercial property, you face eviction or foreclosure, or a contractor dispute involves a lien on your home.
Real estate lawyers often charge a flat fee for a residential closing and hourly rates for disputes. Ask whether the fee includes the title review and what happens if the closing is delayed.
Common Questions
Related Practice Areas
Talk to a Real Estate Law attorney
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This guide explains general rules in the United States and is not legal advice. Laws and deadlines differ by state, and only a licensed attorney can tell you how they apply to your situation.