Business-Minded Real Estate Lawyers In Salt Lake City
Real estate is usually a significant and sizable investment, whether you are a business, a large developer or a private individual buying a home. Our Salt Lake City real estate lawyers have more than 30 years of experience advising clients on Utah’s real estate law. We handle residential and commercial real estate transactions, title insurance and title issues, real estate development, eminent domain, mechanics’ liens, and mortgage foreclosures.
Simplifying Complex Issues In Real Estate Law
At every step of a real estate investment or transaction, our real estate attorneys are available to represent your interests:
- Title issues: We understand title issues and insurance and regularly work with title insurance companies, underwriters and others to ensure that real property titles are clear of all encumbrances.
- Trust deeds and mortgage foreclosures: Our lawyers represent banks, mortgage companies, and other lenders on issues regarding mortgages and mortgage foreclosures.
- Condemnation, eminent domain: We represent landowners, developers and others involved in condemnation proceedings, and eminent domain matters.
- Land use, zoning: When zoning changes are needed for real property development, we represent developers before city and county governments.
- Contract review: We are equipped to draft and review all types and kinds of construction and land contracts that protect our clients’ interests.
- Environmental issues: We help landowners deal with contamination issues in the purchase and sale of contaminated property.
- Leasing: Our lawyers negotiate and draft commercial and residential leases tailored to individual needs and objectives.
- Landlord-tenant matters: If the landlord-tenant relationship sours, we can help you with your commercial or residential eviction action.
- Homeowners and condominium associations: We incorporate HOAs and condo associations, and, as issues arise, we can advise and even guide the association through litigation, if necessary.
Our firm is committed to providing comprehensive legal support and guidance throughout all stages of real estate transactions and developments. With a deep understanding of Utah’s real estate laws, our skilled attorneys are here to assist you every step of the way.
Clarifying Your Questions And Concerns About Real Estate Law
Real estate is one of the biggest investments a person can make in their lifetime. However, we understand that learning the laws and regulations surrounding it can be daunting and confusing. This FAQ section aims to provide clear and concise answers to some common questions and concerns:
How can a real estate attorney assist in resolving property disputes?
A real estate attorney can assist in resolving property disputes in several ways, including:
- Reviewing the details of the property dispute to determine the legal standing of each party involved
- Acting as a mediator to facilitate negotiations between parties to reach a fair and amicable settlement without going to court
- Representing the client if the dispute escalates to court litigation
- Assisting with disputes related to property titles, such as boundary disputes, easements, and encroachments, to ensure a clear and marketable title
- Advising on issues related to zoning laws and land use regulations that may affect the property
- Interpreting contract terms and conditions, and helping resolve disputes arising from real estate contracts, such as purchase agreements or lease agreements
- Helping property owners who are facing foreclosure by negotiating with lenders or defending against foreclosure proceedings.
At Terry Jessop & Bitner, our real estate attorneys leverage their experience and knowledge of Utah’s laws and regulations to protect our clients’ interests in real estate matters and disputes.
What should I consider when reviewing a real estate contract?
When reviewing a real estate contract in Utah, it’s crucial to take a close look at the following terms:
- Parties and property description: Make sure that the contract correctly identifies all parties. The property description must also be accurate, including legal address and boundaries. One of our attorneys can help verify these details to prevent disputes.
- Price, payment and closing terms: Understand the purchase price, payment terms and closing date, including conditions like financing. Our real estate lawyers can negotiate terms on your behalf to align with your financial capabilities.
- Contingencies and termination clauses: Know the conditions for contract continuation or termination. We can clarify these clauses and advise on their implications.
- Title, ownership and disclosures: Ensure clear title transfer and review disclosures about property defects. One of our attorneys can conduct title searches and confirm disclosures.
- Zoning, land use and legal compliance: Our attorney can guide you on zoning restrictions and local regulations that may affect how you use or make changes to your property.
Our experienced real estate lawyers can help you review these elements in your contract, helping you secure a smooth transaction and avoid any potential liabilities or legal issues.
What are the steps involved in the closing process for a real estate transaction?
In most real estate transactions, the closing process typically follows these steps:
- Opening an escrow account: An escrow account is set up with a neutral third party (often a title company) to hold funds and documents until the completion of the transaction.
- Title search and insurance: One of the parties – usually the buyer – conducts a title search to ensure the property has a clear title. They may also purchase title insurance to protect against any future claims or disputes over ownership.
- Property inspection and appraisal: The buyer typically arranges for a home inspection to identify any potential issues with the property. They may also conduct an appraisal to confirm that the property’s value aligns with the purchase price.
- Reviewing and signing documents: Both parties review and sign the closing documents. This may include the settlement statement, deed and any loan documents if applicable. Our attorneys can help you assess these documents.
- Closing meeting and transfer of ownership: During the closing meeting, both parties, their agents and attorneys meet to finalize the transaction. This involves signing all necessary paperwork. The buyer transfers the funds to the seller, and the deed is recorded with the local government to officially transfer ownership.
Under the guidance of our knowledgeable attorneys, you can confidently go through each step knowing that your investment is secure.
Protect Your Real Estate Investment: Call Our Firm Today
The Terry Jessop & Bitner real estate law firm offers small-firm affordability that our real estate clients appreciate. We are known for providing results that most people expect from a large law firm. For a free consultation to discuss how we can help your business, complete our intake form to contact a Salt Lake City business attorney today. Call 385-715-4116 for more information.