When buying or selling property in Florida, one of the most important decisions you will make is who will oversee your transaction and closing. In the Sunshine State, buyers and sellers typically choose between working with a title company or a real estate attorney. Even though both can facilitate the transaction, they offer different levels of service and protection.
Title Companies vs. Real Estate Attorneys
Title companies primarily focus on one thing: ensuring clear title. They conduct title search, issue title insurance, and coordinate the closing process. For many straightforward transactions, a title company can efficiently manage the necessary paperwork and logistics. They are often a cost-effective option, and many real estate agents have long-standing relationships with reliable local title companies.
However, it’s important to understand that title companies cannot provide legal advice. If a contractual dispute arises, your title search reveals a complex issue, or if you have questions about your legal rights, a title company’s role is limited. They can tell you what a document says, but not what you should do.
By contrast, a real estate attorney can oversee the entire closing, offers legal protection, and advocates for the buyer or seller that hires them. Here are some of the other benefits of hiring an attorney:
- They can review your initial purchase agreement, review your financing terms, resolve title defects, draft addendums, and address issues that may surface during inspections or negotiations with any third-party vendors.
- They provide peace of mind, especially in more complex situations such as purchasing an investment property, dealing with heirs or estates, navigating liens, or managing new construction contracts.
- The cost difference is often smaller than people expect. Many Florida attorneys charge flat rates comparable to title company fees, while adding legal oversight that a title company simply can’t provide.
So, which is better? For simple, lower-risk transactions, a title company may be perfectly suitable. But if you want legal representation, anticipate potential complications, or simply prefer having an expert who can protect your interests every step of the way, a real estate attorney offers the greater value.
In a state like Florida, where real estate moves fast and laws are constantly evolving, having the right professional by your side often makes a noticeable difference.
At our law firm, we offer the best of both worlds. When choosing the Law Office of Donna Hearne-Gousse, P.A. for your title, escrow, and closing needs, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of a real estate attorney-based title agency with similar and in many cases lower rates than a standard title company will charge.
The Law Office of Donna Hearne-Gousse
(561) 582-5670