Hiring a real estate lawyer is a very important step in the process of buying or selling your property. Often taken for granted is the role of an attorney in the negotiation of your contract and explanation of your rights as a buyer or seller. A broker may be able to guide you through the initial process of listing a property, showing it to potential buyers, or finding you a place to buy yourself, but an attorney will be taking over from there, protecting you when it is most crucial in the transaction and representing you at the closing table.

To save yourself time and money, be sure to choose your attorney carefully by following this quick guide to hiring a real estate lawyer. Many do not know where to begin when they search for representation.

The best place to start is by listening to the recommendation of your real estate broker. Provided your broker has been in the business for some time, they have dealt with a number of attorneys and know who is the most reliable and knowledgeable in your area. Ask your broker for a few options; then make calls yourself to judge who will best fit you and your needs. If your broker doesn't have enough suggestions for your tastes, ask family members and friends, or call the Bar Association for a referral in your area.

A good real estate attorney should be judged on the following traits:

1. Location - Be sure your attorney is accessible to you. Generally speaking, it is best to find a lawyer who is close to where you live now, so you can get to them easily when papers need to be filled out or you have questions. Ask if the attorney travels to closings.
2. Availability - Not every attorney takes on every case that comes their way. And, sometimes the ones that do end up so overworked that they do not pay appropriate attention to your file. Make sure you assess the state of the attorney's practice when you go in for a consultation. Does he/she look frazzled? Are the staff members helpful?
3. Fee - Don't be afraid to ask what an attorney charges for closing a property. A good lawyer will charge you at closing for the case, but some do require a partial payment up front for their initial work. As long as the fees are clearly explained then you should be ok. When you close, do ask for a closing statement that explains all fees incurred, including representation fees.
4. Specialization - Does this attorney specialize in real estate? An attorney that specializes in matrimonial law may take on a case or two in real estate, but may not be the best choice, especially if your case has complex issues. Ask what the lawyer's practice is based on at the beginning.

By following these four guideline traits you should be able to choose a good attorney in no time. Above all, try to find an attorney that is personable and is able to communicate with you (there are times when people need bilingual attorneys, so ask around in your community if this is the case for you). Remember, you are entrusting this lawyer with your money and rights so take your time before settling on one. Best of luck!