Did you know? If you are buying property in North Carolina, a real estate closing attorney will perform the real estate closing on your home. He or she will help from the time you have a signed contract to even after you leave the closing table. Therefore, real estate attorneys play an important role in the closing process, from ensuring you are taking title to the property free and clear, to preparing the closing statement and recording the deed. Let’s take a look at the process a bit more closely, from beginning to end.
As soon as you are under contract on a property:
- You’ll select an attorney who specializes in real estate. Your Dickens Mitchener agent can recommend one, if needed.
- Send the attorney the Sales Contract so he or she can confirm all terms have been met upon closing.
- The attorney will perform a title search to ensure you are taking title free and clear. Then you will purchase a title insurance policy under the attorney’s umbrella policy.
- The attorney will order a property survey and review it for any encroachments.
- The attorney will prepare the HUD-1 closing statement to confirm all the funds that need to be disbursed at closing and facilitate a smooth transfer of funds between buyer and seller.
During the closing:
- The real estate closing attorney will conduct the closing by reviewing all loan documents with the buyer, and other documents needed to finalize the closing will be signed.
After the closing:
- The attorney immediately goes to the courthouse to record the deed, then disburses the funds and returns all signed paperwork to the lender.
Real estate attorneys play a valuable role in making sure your best interests are represented. If you have questions about the process or you’re ready to start your home search, contact Dickens Mitchener’s VP of Relocation, Catharine Pappas. Catharine is available seven days a week by phone at 704.661.2402 to help all of Dickens Mitchener’s relocation clients. With more than 25 years of real estate and relocation experience, she is skilled at pairing clients with experienced agents who can help you buy or sell in Charlotte and the surrounding area.