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Best Real Estate Attorneys in the US

Last Updated: 13/12/2025

Buying property is likely the biggest financial decision you'll make. One missed clause or title defect can cost thousands. Whether you're closing on your first home, negotiating a commercial lease, or resolving a boundary dispute, the legal details matter. The real estate attorneys below have the experience to get it right.

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    List of the Top 16 Real Estate Lawyers

    Screenshot of the Bradford Miller Law, P.C. Website
    10 S La Salle St Suite 2920, Chicago, IL 60603, USA

    Bradford Miller Law is a Chicago real estate law firm with six offices across Illinois. The team handles residential and commercial transactions for buyers, sellers, investors, and landlords. They also guide clients through short sales, building code violations, and estate planning matters.

    Their attorneys provide practical, business-minded counsel without overselling complex solutions. Each case gets individual attention. Offices in Chicago, Naperville, Elgin, Lincolnshire, Orland Park, and Westchester make them accessible throughout the region.

    Screenshot of the Law Office of Kimberly A. Abrams & Associates, P.A. Website

    Kimberly Abrams is a South Florida real estate attorney with over 30 years of transactional experience. Her Fort Lauderdale firm has completed thousands of residential and commercial closings throughout Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties.

    The practice includes title searches, escrow services, and insurance through Evolution Title & Closing Services, LLC. Clients get document preparation, contract negotiation, and personalized support from start to finish. The team offers after-hours, mobile, and electronic closings to fit busy schedules.

    Screenshot of the Lufrano Law, LLC Website
    818 Harrison St Suite 210, Oak Park, IL 60304, USA

    Oak Park property attorney Christopher Lufrano brings a unique background to real estate law. Before practicing, he worked as a Wall Street trader and real estate entrepreneur.

    The firm handles closings, estate planning, and investment fraud litigation. Flat-fee pricing keeps costs predictable. Clients get strategic, informed counsel on buying, selling, or protecting assets. The office is 20 minutes from downtown Chicago.

    Screenshot of the Law Offices of Daryl L. Jones, P.A. now known as Khan Law, P.A. Website

    Khan Law serves South Florida homeowners facing foreclosure, loan modification, and short sale challenges. The Palmetto Bay firm has helped thousands of clients reduce monthly payments and defend their properties.

    Attorneys Daryl L. Jones and Faequa A. Khan also handle real estate transactions, probate, and contract disputes. Spanish-speaking staff provides bilingual support. Clients receive a strategy session at no cost to explore their options.

    Screenshot of the Law Offices of Jacqueline A. Salcines Website
    706 S Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA

    Jacqueline Salcines is a Coral Gables real estate lawyer serving all of Florida. Her team handles residential and commercial closings, title services, and real estate litigation. They also represent landlords and tenants in disputes.

    The firm holds an AV peer rating from Martindale-Hubbell and recognition from Lawyers of Distinction. Spanish-language services help clients who prefer conducting business in their native tongue.

    Screenshot of the Law Office of Phil Napolitano Website
    788 Morris Park Ave, Bronx, NY 10462, USA

    Bronx real estate attorney Phil Napolitano has guided New York City clients through property transactions since 1996. His Morris Park office handles residential purchases, commercial deals, and landlord-tenant matters.

    The firm represents buyers, sellers, investors, and lending institutions. Services include title searches, contract review, boundary disputes, and foreclosure response. Bilingual staff provides support in Spanish. Initial consultations are offered at no charge.

    Screenshot of the Adam Leitman Bailey, P.C. Website
    Eighteenth Floor, One Battery Park Plaza, Battery Place Suite 1, New York, NY 10004, USA

    Adam Leitman Bailey, P.C. is a New York City real estate litigation firm ranked by Chambers USA. The team has participated in many of the most important property cases of the 21st century, setting new law on condominium disputes, sponsor liability, and construction defects.

    Their attorneys have secured landmark settlements, including the largest condominium defect settlement in Brooklyn history. Super Lawyers named Adam Leitman Bailey to its Top 100 list. The Commercial Observer ranks him among New York's most powerful real estate attorneys.

    The firm represents condominium boards, developers, tenants, and landlords. They handle complex transactions, title litigation, and high-stakes disputes throughout New York.

    Screenshot of the Law Office of Michael C. Schonberger Website
    44 Bright St, Jersey City, NJ 07302, USA

    Michael Schonberger represents buyers, sellers, and property owners across Hudson and Bergen counties. His Jersey City firm handles purchases, sales, refinancing, and commercial leases throughout northern New Jersey.

    Practice areas include landlord-tenant disputes, construction law, foreclosure defense, and entity formation. The team also provides corporate counsel for business owners in Hoboken, Hackensack, and Fort Lee.

    Screenshot of the Law Offices of Nader A. Nader Website
    14545 Friar St #102, Van Nuys, CA 91411, USA

    Los Angeles property attorney Nader Nader resolves real estate disputes throughout the San Fernando Valley. His Van Nuys practice focuses on landlord-tenant conflicts, evictions, boundary disagreements, and zoning matters.

    The firm has earned recognition from Super Lawyers and appears on local news covering tenant rights issues. Clients get results-driven representation backed by strong courtroom experience.

    Screenshot of the Mallory Law Office, LLC Website
    1733 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43221, USA

    Columbus real estate attorney Thomas Mallory has practiced since 1995. He holds advanced degrees in taxation and European business law from Capital University and the University of Amsterdam.

    His firm handles property transactions, commercial disputes, and business formation throughout central Ohio. The team has experience as real estate developers and business owners themselves, which shapes their practical approach. Flexible payment structures help clients manage legal costs.

    Screenshot of the Goodkin APC Website
    1900 Avenue of the Stars Suite 1820, Los Angeles, CA 90067, USA

    Goodkin APC is a Los Angeles real estate law firm serving developers and property owners since 2006. The boutique practice handles litigation, construction disputes, and insurance coverage matters.

    Recent results include an $800,000 unlawful detainer judgment and a $6.3 million commercial loan closing. The team provides large-firm experience at more affordable rates.

    Screenshot of the David J. Willis Attorney Website
    5100 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056, USA

    Houston real estate attorney David Willis is double board-certified in residential and commercial property law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. He also holds a Texas real estate broker license.

    His practice serves investors throughout the state with LLC formation, series LLCs, asset protection, and creative transactions like wraparounds and seller financing. Willis authored "Real Estate Law & Asset Protection for Texas Real Estate Investors," now in its 2026 edition. The firm offers many services online with flat-fee pricing.

    Screenshot of the Real Estate Attorney Los Angeles - The Brinton Firm Website

    The Brinton Firm represents tenants in landlord disputes throughout Southern California. Their Los Angeles attorneys focus on wrongful eviction, unsafe housing conditions, and landlord harassment cases.

    The team has recovered over $10 million for renters dealing with bed bugs, rodent infestations, asbestos exposure, and rent control violations. Spanish-speaking staff offers bilingual support. Clients pay nothing unless they win.

    Screenshot of the Michael H. Wasserman, P.C. Website
    105 W. Madison St., Suite 401, Chicago, IL 60602

    Michael H. Wasserman, P.C. handles residential real estate closings throughout Chicago and Cook County. The firm has represented thousands of buyers and sellers since 1990, closing over $1 billion in property transactions.

    Their proprietary "Wasserman Way" process uses technology to track every detail. The average closing time is just 23 days. Flat-fee pricing keeps costs predictable. After each closing, the firm donates $50 to a charity of the client's choice.

    Screenshot of the Exceed Legal Website
    421 S 8th St, Boise, ID 83702, USA

    Exceed Legal is a Boise law firm handling business, estate, and real estate matters throughout the Intermountain West. The team has assisted over 4,000 clients and closed more than 10,000 transactions.

    Practice areas include buying and selling property, construction disputes, commercial leases, and zoning issues. They also form LLCs and handle business contracts.

    Screenshot of the Evans Law - Atlanta Real Estate Attorney Website

    Atlanta real estate attorney Andrew Evans has practiced for over 20 years. He handles foreclosures, excess funds claims, tax sales, and property disputes throughout metro Atlanta.

    The firm serves Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Clayton, and Henry counties. Evans graduated summa cum laude from UT Austin and cum laude from UGA Law School. Clients get a consultation at no charge.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What Does a Real Estate Attorney Do?

    A real estate attorney handles legal matters related to buying, selling, or transferring property. They review and draft contracts, conduct title searches, resolve boundary disputes, and represent clients at closings.

    These lawyers also handle:

    • Purchase agreement negotiations
    • Title insurance issues and liens
    • Zoning and land use disputes
    • Foreclosure defense or proceedings
    • Landlord-tenant conflicts
    • Commercial property transactions

    Real estate transactions involve significant money and complex documents. An attorney protects your interests and catches problems before they become expensive mistakes.

    Do I Need a Real Estate Attorney to Buy a House?

    Requirements vary by state. Some states mandate attorney involvement in real estate transactions, while others make it optional.

    States requiring attorney involvement include New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and West Virginia. In these states, attorneys must review documents or attend closings.

    States where attorneys are optional include California, Texas, Arizona, Colorado, and Florida. Title companies or escrow agents often handle closings instead.

    Even in optional states, hiring an attorney makes sense for complex transactions, short sales, foreclosures, or commercial deals. The cost is small compared to the protection you receive.

    How Much Do Real Estate Attorneys Charge?

    Most real estate attorneys charge either flat fees or hourly rates. The pricing structure depends on the transaction type and complexity.

    Flat fee arrangements are common for standard residential closings. Expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 for a straightforward home purchase. Complex transactions or commercial deals run $2,000 to $5,000 or more.

    Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $400 per hour, depending on location and experience. Attorneys in major cities charge higher rates than those in rural areas.

    Get fee estimates in writing before hiring. Ask what services the fee covers and what might cost extra, such as additional document reviews or court appearances.

    What Questions Should I Ask When Comparing Real Estate Attorneys?

    Ask specific questions to evaluate each attorney's fit for your needs. Focus on experience, communication style, and fees.

    Experience questions:

    • How many real estate transactions do you handle annually?
    • Have you worked on deals similar to mine?
    • How long have you practiced real estate law in this state?

    Process questions:

    • Who will handle my file—you or a paralegal?
    • How quickly do you respond to emails and calls?
    • Will you attend the closing personally?

    Fee questions:

    • What's your total fee for this transaction?
    • What additional costs might arise?
    • Do you require a retainer?

    Compare at least three attorneys before deciding. The cheapest option isn't always the best value.

    What Red Flags Should I Watch for When Hiring a Real Estate Attorney?

    Certain warning signs indicate an attorney may not serve you well. Trust your instincts if something feels wrong.

    Communication problems include slow response times, vague answers to direct questions, and difficulty reaching the attorney. Real estate deals move quickly, and delays can cost you the transaction.

    Lack of transparency about fees signals potential issues. Attorneys should provide clear, written fee agreements. Avoid anyone who won't commit to pricing upfront.

    Limited real estate experience matters more than general legal experience. An attorney who primarily handles divorces or criminal cases may miss important property law nuances.

    Check the attorney's standing with your state bar association. Look for disciplinary actions, complaints, or malpractice claims.

    When Should I Contact a Real Estate Attorney During a Transaction?

    Contact an attorney early—before signing any binding documents. Once you sign a purchase agreement, you're typically bound by its terms.

    Ideal timing includes:

    • Before making an offer on a property
    • When reviewing seller disclosures
    • After receiving the purchase agreement draft
    • Before the inspection contingency deadline
    • Several days before closing

    For sellers, involve an attorney before listing if you anticipate complications like estate sales, divorces, or liens on the property.

    Waiting until problems arise costs more than proactive legal review. Many issues are preventable with early attorney involvement.

    What's the Difference Between a Real Estate Attorney and a Title Company?

    Title companies and real estate attorneys serve different functions, though their roles sometimes overlap.

    Title companies research property ownership history, issue title insurance policies, and often facilitate closings. They follow standardized procedures but don't provide legal advice. Their primary client is the title insurance underwriter, not you.

    Real estate attorneys provide legal counsel tailored to your specific situation. They can negotiate contract terms, identify legal risks, and represent you if disputes arise. Their loyalty is to you alone.

    In attorney-required states, lawyers perform title searches and handle closings directly. In other states, you might use both—a title company for insurance and an attorney for legal review.

    How Do I Verify a Real Estate Attorney's Credentials?

    Every state maintains a bar association that tracks licensed attorneys. Start your verification there.

    Check these resources:

    • State bar association website for license status and disciplinary history
    • Martindale-Hubbell or Avvo for peer ratings
    • State real estate bar sections for specialization certifications
    • Online reviews from past clients

    Ask the attorney directly about:

    • Law school and year of graduation
    • Years practicing real estate law specifically
    • Professional memberships and certifications
    • Malpractice insurance coverage

    Some states offer board certification in real estate law. This credential requires extra testing and demonstrates advanced expertise. The American Bar Association doesn't certify specialists, but state bars often do.

    What Should a Real Estate Attorney Review Before Closing?

    A thorough attorney reviews multiple documents before you sign anything at closing.

    Essential document review includes:

    • Title search results and title insurance commitment
    • Survey or plot plan for boundary accuracy
    • Purchase agreement and all amendments
    • Loan documents (if financing the purchase)
    • Closing disclosure and settlement statement
    • Deed and transfer documents
    • HOA documents and covenants (if applicable)

    The attorney should verify that dollar amounts match your agreement, all contingencies were satisfied, and no unexpected liens appear on the title. They should also confirm that property taxes are prorated correctly.

    This review typically happens 24 to 48 hours before closing. Rush reviews increase the chance of missing important details.

    Can a Real Estate Attorney Help With Property Disputes After Purchase?

    Yes, real estate attorneys handle post-purchase disputes regularly. Property issues don't end at closing.

    Common post-purchase matters include:

    • Boundary and easement disputes with neighbors
    • Undisclosed defects the seller hid
    • Title defects discovered after closing
    • Breach of contract claims
    • Construction defect litigation
    • Adverse possession claims

    Statute of limitations rules apply to these claims and vary by state. For example, breach of contract claims must typically be filed within 4 to 6 years. Fraud claims involving concealed defects may have longer windows.

    Document everything and contact an attorney promptly when disputes arise. Delays can weaken your legal position or eliminate your options entirely.