How do you know you have a good RE atty?

For the home owners...

What skills, characteristics, behaviors are key to separating the good RE attorneys from the not-so-good ones?

thanks!

eta: edited post title

Message edited 3/19/2007 4:05:28 PM.

Re: You know you have a good RE atty when...

When you call them and they actually call you back!

Re: How do you know you have a good RE atty?

I am not a homeowner just yet. But in 11 days I will be. Our attorney has been great so far. They talk to people on our behalf and are in constant communication with us.

It also helps that DH grew up and is good friends with his son and has known him for years so we know he is looking out for us.

Re: How do you know you have a good RE atty?

A good real estate attorney should go over everything with you prior to signing contracts to make sure that you are aware of the additional expenses that you will have to pay at closing--such as taxes, title, oil adjustment and any other adjustments or expenses that are not included in a good faith estimate. They should also know about mortgages and how they work in case you have any questions. They also should explain the process to you and keep on your file, bank attorney, title company etc to make sure that everything is moving at the right pace. I usually say that you should get a referral from someone so that you know that they are good because someone else was happy with their work. Also you get what you pay for so if you are paying someone $500 you may not get the same service (or good service) as if you were paying an attorney the going rate which is $950 to $1250 depending on who you go to. Good luck and if you need a referral I would be happy to give you one.