I’m in the process of interviewing realtors to help me buy a home. During my conversation with one (recommended by a fried), I mentioned that I plan to hire a lawyer to review the paperwork when the time comes. He tried to talk me out of it, saying the title company ensures everything is in order, including title insurance, and that it wouldn’t be my problem if heirs or other claims arose in the future.
I explained that I wanted a lawyer because the title company doesn’t have a fiduciary obligation to me, and it’s not just about titles—there could also be issues with disclosures or contract terms. He then said his job (or the firm’s) was to ensure the contract protects me and that the contracts they use are approved by some association, and that he will explain every single sentence in the contract for me.
When I pushed and insisted on hiring a lawyer, he eventually agreed, but it felt like he only did so reluctantly.
Should I consider this a red flag? Is it normal for a realtor to discourage hiring a lawyer? Could there be a reason he doesn’t want me to have one? Would you continue with this realtor or look for someone else?
I explained that I wanted a lawyer because the title company doesn’t have a fiduciary obligation to me, and it’s not just about titles—there could also be issues with disclosures or contract terms. He then said his job (or the firm’s) was to ensure the contract protects me and that the contracts they use are approved by some association, and that he will explain every single sentence in the contract for me.
When I pushed and insisted on hiring a lawyer, he eventually agreed, but it felt like he only did so reluctantly.
Should I consider this a red flag? Is it normal for a realtor to discourage hiring a lawyer? Could there be a reason he doesn’t want me to have one? Would you continue with this realtor or look for someone else?
Statistics: Posted by BogleMelon — Wed Dec 18, 2024 9:09 am — Replies 26 — Views 848