Best Real Estate Attorneys in the US

Last Updated: 17/11/2025

Real estate attorneys in the US handle everything from home purchases to commercial deals and land disputes. Whether you're closing on your first home, negotiating a commercial lease, or resolving a boundary issue, the legal details matter. One missed clause or title defect can cost you thousands. Our curated list connects you with experienced real estate lawyers across the country who know how to protect your investment.

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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, P.C. is a Chicago real estate law firm with six office locations across Illinois. The team handles residential and commercial property transactions for buyers, sellers, and landlords. They also assist with short sales, building code violations, and estate planning matters. Attorneys draft wills, powers of attorney, and living trusts based on each client's situation. The firm serves clients in Chicago, Naperville, Elgin, Lincolnshire, Orland Park, and Westchester. Their practice combines property law expertise with business formation services. Staff helps create LLCs, corporations, operating agreements, and partnership contracts. Bradford Miller Law delivers personalized assessments without pushing unnecessary legal tools.

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

Kimberly Abrams has closed more than 5,000 residential and commercial real estate transactions since 2000. This Fort Lauderdale property law attorney holds degrees from NYU and Nova Southeastern University. The firm runs a subsidiary title company called Evolution Title & Closing Services. As an agent for Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, they handle deals statewide. Staff serves Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. The team offers after-hours closings, mobile closings, and electronic closings. Kimberly personally reviews title searches, lien searches, and estoppel letters for each transaction. Clients work directly with licensed counsel rather than administrative staff. The office provides contract drafting, negotiation, and issue resolution from start to finish. Both English and Spanish speakers receive full support throughout the process.

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

Christopher Lufrano runs this Oak Park real estate and investment litigation firm just outside Chicago. Before law school, he worked as a Wall Street trader and real estate entrepreneur. That background shapes his approach to client financial decisions today. The firm handles property transactions, estate planning, and investment fraud cases against brokerage firms. Attorney Lufrano uses his finance experience to negotiate workable solutions. Real estate closings and estate planning services carry flat fees stated upfront. Investment litigation works on contingency, meaning clients pay nothing unless they recover funds. The team pursues cases through FINRA arbitration when brokers make unsuitable recommendations. Staff guides buyers and sellers through the entire Chicago-area closing process. Initial consultations cost nothing, and the firm maintains transparent pricing throughout.

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

Khan Law maintains a 90% success rate in foreclosure defense cases throughout South Florida. The firm has negotiated over 4,000 loan modifications since 2008. Founder Daryl Jones served in the Florida Legislature from 1990 to 2002. During that time, he amended state foreclosure laws about 12 times. He also worked as an investment banker for nine years and served on a major bank's board for a decade. Managing Partner Faequa Khan now leads the practice. She graduated from the University of Florida law school and served as a federal court fellow. The team handles foreclosure defense, short sales, probate, and real estate transactions. Palmetto Bay homeowners facing mortgage problems get practical solutions based on decades of banking industry knowledge. Staff speaks with lenders who often ignore homeowner requests.

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

Jacqueline Salcines brings 26 years of real estate law experience to her Coral Gables practice. She holds both accounting and law degrees from the University of Miami. The firm has closed 5,000+ transactions for residential and commercial clients. As a title agent for Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, she handles deals throughout Florida. Attorney Salcines personally manages each closing rather than delegating to staff. Spanish-speaking clients receive full support. The office assists with contract disputes, foreclosure alternatives, and landlord-tenant matters.

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

Phil Napolitano has practiced real estate law in the Bronx since 1996. Born and raised in the area, he earned his JD from St. John's University. The firm handles residential purchases, commercial leases, and property disputes throughout New York City. Attorney Napolitano represents individuals, investors, landlords, and lending institutions. His practice includes business formation, estate planning, wills, trusts, and probate. Spanish-speaking clients receive services in their language. First consultations cost nothing. The office sits in the Morris Park neighborhood with convenient subway access.

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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. ranks among New York's top real estate litigation firms with under 30 attorneys. Chambers & Partners repeatedly names the firm a leading practice for real estate law. The team holds AV Martindale-Hubbell ratings and Super Lawyers Top 100 recognition. Founder Adam Bailey is a fellow of the American College of Real Estate Lawyers. His New York Times bestselling book helps homebuyers find better deals. The firm handles high-stakes disputes, condominium matters, landlord-tenant issues, and title insurance claims. Attorneys have won landmark cases that changed New York property law.

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

Michael Schonberger represents buyers and sellers in Jersey City and northern New Jersey real estate matters. The firm handles residential purchases, commercial leasing, and landlord-tenant disputes. Attorney Schonberger also works on foreclosure defense, construction law, and business entity formation. His practice serves Hudson and Bergen counties, including Hoboken, Hackensack, and Fort Lee. Client reviews praise his attention to detail and proactive communication. Some clients have used his services for multiple transactions over 10+ years. The office provides contract drafting, title clearance, and mortgage closing assistance.

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

Nader A. Nader focuses on real property disputes in the greater Los Angeles area. His Van Nuys office has earned 215+ reviews and Super Lawyers recognition. The attorney handles landlord-tenant matters, evictions, boundary disputes, and zoning issues. He represents homeowners, contractors, HOAs, and real estate agents facing legal problems. Admitted to the California Bar in 2017, Nader has worked in LA real estate since 2005. Staff resolves conflicts through negotiation when possible. Consultations are thorough and answer all client concerns.

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

Thomas Mallory Jr. has practiced real estate and business law in Columbus since 1995. He earned his JD from Capital University, then added LLM degrees in European business law and taxation. The firm handles property transactions, corporate matters, commercial litigation, and estate planning. Attorney Mallory has been a business owner and real estate developer himself. That experience shapes his practical approach to client problems. Staff offers creative fee structures and prompt responsiveness. The office serves small businesses, individuals, and families throughout central Ohio.

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

Goodkin APC has served California real estate developers since 2006. Daniel Goodkin earned his JD from Loyola Marymount in 1987 and made Super Lawyers multiple times. He co-authored a book on easements and boundaries published by Continuing Education of the Bar. The Los Angeles firm handles transactions, construction disputes, insurance coverage, and business litigation. Attorney Goodkin served as general counsel for a national development company. His team assists with affordable housing, commercial leases, and risk management. Staff includes Rising Stars attorneys recognized by Super Lawyers.

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

David Willis holds double board certification in residential and commercial real estate law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. He also maintains a Texas real estate broker license. With 40+ years of experience, he wrote an 817-page book on Texas real estate law and asset protection. The Houston attorney helps investors structure series LLCs in Texas and Nevada. His firm handles creative transactions including wraparounds, seller financing, and wholesaling. Attorney Willis earned AV Preeminent ratings from Martindale-Hubbell. Flat fees cover most services, and clients complete work online without office visits.

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

The Brinton Firm represents tenants exclusively throughout Los Angeles. Attorneys have recovered over $10 million for renters facing wrongful eviction and landlord harassment. Cases involve rent control violations, unsafe living conditions, and premises liability. The firm works on contingency, so clients pay nothing upfront. Spanish-speaking renters receive full support. Notable settlements include $1 million for property manager fraud and six-figure awards for asbestos exposure and rodent infestations.

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

Michael Wasserman has helped Chicago buyers and sellers since 1994. The firm completed over $1 billion in residential transactions. Their proprietary process closes deals in an average of 23 days. Attorney Wasserman founded the Chicagoland Association of Real Estate Attorneys. Staff handles properties with one to four units throughout Cook County. Flat fees apply to most closings, and fully digital options exist for out-of-state clients.

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

Exceed Legal was founded in 2016 by attorneys Ian Gee and Erik Bolinder. Each brings over 20 years of experience to the Boise practice. The firm handles business law, real estate transactions, and estate planning for Idaho clients. Both founders are entrepreneurs and business owners. Staff assists with entity formation, securities compliance, and land use matters.

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Screenshot of the Evans Law - Atlanta Real Estate Attorney Website

Andrew Evans handles foreclosure defense, excess funds claims, and real estate litigation across metro Atlanta. The firm serves Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Clayton, and Henry counties. Attorney Evans developed innovative legal methods that other lawyers now follow. His practice includes personal injury, banking disputes, and quiet title actions. Free consultations help clients understand their options quickly.

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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.