Resale by Individual
If you are buying a residential property that is being sold by an individual, you as the buyer have the right to choose the settlement agent who will handle the closing of your purchase transaction. ZE will handle your transaction in a prompt, efficient and friendly manner, with constant awareness of your concerns about the transaction and its cost. Our staff is always available to answer your questions and to try to meet your needs regarding your purchase.
At your settlement, we will take as much time as is necessary to explain the loan documents to you. There are no “stupid questions” in a real estate settlement. This is one of the biggest investments you will make in your life and you deserve to understand what you are doing.
If you choose a title company to handle your settlement, you should be aware that the legislature of Virginia has determined that, while a real estate settlement is not technically the “practice of law”, title company employees (including attorneys) who perform settlements may only handle administrative and clerical matters. They may not give legal advice. At ZE, your settlement will be conducted by an attorney who can answer all of your questions. Our fees are also competitive with those charged by most title companies!
New from a Builder
Buying a new house from a builder is an exciting process, but there can be pitfalls. Usually, a builder will have the Buyer seek his own representation in the transaction. The builder may try to induce the buyer to use a title company affiliated with the Builder to settle the transaction. There are good reasons for this, but you, as the purchaser, need to have someone on your side in the transaction. ZE can assist you in several ways in this situation: we can handle the entire settlement, we can attend the settlement with you to explain documents and represent your interests, or we can review the documents prepared by the builder’s title company to make sure that you are not overcharged and that you are treated fairly.
Bank Foreclosure
If you are buying property from a Bank that has already foreclosed its deed of trust, you should take special precautions. You need to completely understand the contract the Bank gives you, and you need to be sure that the title to the property you are purchasing is free from defects. See the articles in our “Real Estate News” section of this website.
Buying a Property at a Foreclosure Sale or Auction
Buyers should be very cautious in purchasing property at a foreclosure auction. No property should be purchased without title research prior to the auction. You should give consideration to retaining an attorney for advise/guidance you if you are thinking about purchasing a property in a foreclosure auction.
Legal Representation
If you are involved in a real estate transaction and wish to retain your own attorney, contact our real estate staff. We can assist you on many different levels, from simple document review to accompanying you to settlement.