Residential Real Estate Attorney Serving Dallas, Texas

Buying and selling residential real estate in Texas can be complex and confusing, especially if you’re new to the market. Requirements can vary county by county, and the paperwork can seem daunting. If you overlook the smallest detail, something might come back to haunt you later on. The closing dates may have to be pushed back to make up for a misstep, frustrating both the buyer and seller. 

As a residential real estate attorney based in Dallas, Texas, I provide top-tier legal services to individuals embarking on their real estate journey. Whether you're buying or selling a home, refinancing your mortgage, or dealing with a dispute with a seller or tenant, my role is to stand by your side. I understand that these transactions can have substantial financial and personal impacts, and it's my mission to guide you through the process and protect your interests. 

In my practice at Thomas McMurray, P.C., I prioritize personalized service, transparency, and honesty. I believe in listening to my clients, understanding their goals, and working diligently to safeguard their interests throughout any real estate transaction. Outside of the Dallas area, my firm also serves those in Fort Worth, McKinney, and Denton.  

Overview of Residential Real Estate 

In the residential real estate industry, there are several situations that buyers and sellers frequently encounter. If you're a buyer, you may be diving into purchasing a home, negotiating lease agreements, or considering property exchanges. As a seller, your journey could involve selling properties, crafting contracts, and resolving any disputes that may arise. Regardless of which side of the deal you’re on, the following aspects of your real estate transaction will carry the utmost importance.  

Title Searches 

Title searches play a crucial role in residential real estate transactions. They involve a thorough examination of public records to confirm the legal ownership of the property and to identify any claims, defects, or other issues that might impact the transaction. These could include liens, easements, or restrictions that could affect the use or resale of the property.  

Conducting a comprehensive title search is vital to ensuring that your investment is secure and that you won't face unexpected legal issues or costs in the future. As your attorney, I will facilitate this process and work closely with title companies to handle any issues that might come up, ensuring a smooth transaction and peace of mind for you. 

Property Boundary Issues 

Property boundary issues can often emerge as a significant challenge in residential real estate transactions. Disagreements over the precise extent and limits of a property can lead to lengthy disputes that may slow down or even halt transactions. These disputes could arise due to discrepancies in property descriptions in historical deeds or conflicts between neighbors regarding fencing, trees, or structures that encroach on the perceived boundaries.  

To prevent such disputes, it's advisable to conduct a professional land survey as part of the transaction process. This survey will provide a precise, legally recognized description of the property boundaries. I can assist in arranging for these surveys and dealing with any boundary issues that may arise, ensuring a clear and undisputed understanding of your property's limits. 

Home Inspections 

Home inspections form a crucial part of residential real estate transactions, offering an in-depth examination of a property's current condition. A professional home inspector will assess the home's structure, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC systems, and more, highlighting any existing or potential issues.   

This process is key as it provides invaluable insights to the buyer about the home's condition, allowing them to make an informed decision before moving forward with the purchase. It might also provide leverage in price negotiations or requests for repairs. As your legal counsel, I will guide you through the home inspection process, helping you understand the inspection report and its possible impacts on your transaction.  

Closing 

The closing process, often referred to as 'settlement', is the final step in a residential real estate transaction. This process involves several key elements. The buyer and seller agree on a closing date, typically 30 to 60 days after the seller accepts the offer. During this period, necessary paperwork is completed, and a title company will conduct an additional title search to ensure no claims have been made on the property since the initial title search.   

On the closing day, all parties involved meet to sign documents. The buyer finalizes their mortgage agreement, if applicable, and pays the closing costs, which can include attorney fees, title service costs, and payment to the escrow account. Once all documents have been signed, and payments made, the keys are handed over to the buyer. I will assist you through each of these steps, ensuring that all elements are legally sound and aligned with your best interests.