South Carolina and Georgia Real Estate Purchase Attorney
December 13, 2022
Legal Guidance for Home Buyers in South Carolina & Georgia
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you will make. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, an investment property, or a vacation home, ensuring your transaction’s legality and security is crucial. Both South Carolina and Georgia require buyers to hire a real estate attorney to oversee the closing process, conduct title searches, and protect their interests.
At The Bannon Law Group, LLC, we provide comprehensive legal assistance to home buyers in Beaufort County, Jasper County, Charleston, Savannah, and throughout South Carolina and Georgia. Our attorneys ensure that your rights are protected, contracts are sound, and the transaction is legally compliant.
Planning to buy a home? Call 843-865-8922 or contact us for experienced legal assistance.
How a Real Estate Attorney Helps Home Buyers
A real estate attorney ensures your home purchase is legally sound and secure. At The Bannon Law Group, LLC, we assist buyers by:
- Drafting and reviewing purchase contracts to protect buyer rights
- Performing title searches to uncover potential ownership disputes or liens
- Reviewing mortgage documents to confirm fair lending terms
- Advising on title insurance to prevent financial losses
- Handling negotiations for contract amendments and seller obligations
- Representing buyers at closing to ensure a smooth and lawful transaction
Buying a home? Protect your investment—Call 843-865-8922 or schedule a consultation today.
Key Steps in Buying a Home in South Carolina & Georgia
1. Submitting an Offer & Contract Review
Once a buyer identifies a property, they submit a written offer to the seller. This offer forms a legally binding contract upon acceptance. A real estate attorney ensures the contract terms protect the buyer’s interests by:
- Including contingencies (home inspection, financing approval, appraisal)
- Confirming fair deposit and earnest money requirements
- Negotiating closing costs and seller responsibilities
2. Conducting a Title Search & Obtaining Title Insurance
Before closing, a real estate attorney performs a title search to confirm the seller has a clear and marketable title. Common title issues include:
- Unpaid liens or mortgages
- Boundary disputes or easements
- Undisclosed heirs or past ownership claims
Without title insurance, buyers risk financial losses due to title disputes.
3. Financing & Mortgage Review
If the buyer secures a mortgage, lenders typically require:
- A down payment (varies by loan type, often 3-20%)
- Mortgage insurance (if the down payment is under 20%)
- Lender’s title insurance (protecting the mortgage holder’s interest)
A real estate attorney ensures buyers fully understand loan terms, repayment obligations, and potential risks.
4. Home Inspection & Negotiations
Buyers should schedule a home inspection before finalizing the purchase. If issues arise, the attorney helps:
- Negotiate repairs or seller concessions
- Amend the contract if necessary
- Ensure all agreements are properly documented
5. Closing & Finalizing the Sale
At closing, the buyer’s real estate attorney ensures all documents are accurate and legally binding. This includes:
- Final review of loan documents and settlement statements
- Recording the deed and transferring funds
- Ensuring compliance with state real estate laws
Buying a home in South Carolina or Georgia? Contact us for expert legal guidance.
Why You Need a Real Estate Attorney in South Carolina & Georgia
Both states require an attorney to oversee real estate closings. Beyond legal compliance, an attorney:
- Prevents costly mistakes that could impact home ownership
- Protects buyers from fraudulent transactions or hidden property defects
- Ensures contract terms are favorable and legally enforceable
Buying a home is an exciting but complex process—having a trusted legal advisor ensures peace of mind and financial security.
Protect your investment—Call 843-865-8922 or contact us today.