Homeownership Resource Center

Real estate agent hanging a For Sale sign in front of a house.

Homeownership is one of the most exciting and significant milestones in your life.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned property investor, understanding the legal aspects of homeownership can save you money, time, and stress. Welcome to our homeowner’s resource center where we answer crucial questions like how to get a lawyer for buying a house and what you need a lawyer for when buying a house. We even deal with how to handle bad neighbors. With so many legal intricacies involved in property ownership, it's essential that you have legal support every step of the way.

Buying, selling, HOA or contractor disputes—we’re here for you

By the numbers*

54%

of people

used a lawyer for homeowner legal issues

71%

of people

said that access to a lawyer for homeowner legal issues would give them peace of mind

24%

of people

said that cost was a barrier to hiring a lawyer

*The LegalShield survey was conducted in April 2024 and surveyed 1,218 adults, ages 18 and older, who live in the United States. The sample was balanced by age, among other demographic variables, according to the U.S. Census.

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When do you need a real estate lawyer?

NAR settlement that can change how you buy and sell homes

What is the NAR settlement

It is a recent settlement agreed upon by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) that can significantly change the world of buying and selling real estate. Homeowners may be able to see a drop in the cost of selling their home. This can also allow buyers to negotiate their fees with agents.

What are the phases of buying a home?

1) Get your finances in order

2) Look for a loan and try to pre-qualify

3) Research and pick a real estate agent

4) Search for the perfect home for you

5) Make an offer

Using a lawyer when buying a house

Why do you need a lawyer when buying a house?

A lawyer can help and advise you through the homebuying process. They can draft or review the purchase contract and represent you in a closing. Further, they can negotiate on your behalf, help with title searches, and be in your corner if a problem comes up during your closing.

How do I get a lawyer for buying a house?

You can hire a lawyer the old way, by Googling lawyers and reading reviews, or getting a referral. Or you can find a lawyer the new and more affordable way – with LegalShield.

How to start the home selling process

What steps to take before selling your house?

1) Pick your proposed move out date.

2) Start interviewing real estate agents.

3) Make necessary repairs and improvements.

4) Research and set your asking price.

5) Get your home ready to sell.

What happens after you accept an offer?

Once you accept an offer, you must be ready and able to move out by the closing date. You also must get the buyer’s deposit and ensure that the buyer is moving forward with their financing plan. And make sure you complete all agreed-to repairs.

Neighbor disputes

What is a neighbor dispute?

Simply put, it’s when neighbors disagree about something, for example, the proper placement of a fence. Sometimes, such disagreements can turn into legal disputes in which case hiring a lawyer may be appropriate.

What can I do about bad neighbors?

Neighbors can be annoying, from a dog with a loud bark, to loud music at all hours of the night, to trespassing. In some cases, you may need a lawyer’s help. Of course, first, you may be able to amicably resolve the issue on your own, but in some situations, you may need to take legal action in the form of a cease-and-desist letter or starting a civil lawsuit.

Lien on house

What does put a lien on the house mean?

A lien is a legal right / claim against a property by a creditor. For example, mortgage liens are attached to homes on which the mortgage is owed.

What is an example of a lien?

One of the most common liens is a “mechanic’s lien.” If you hire a contractor to work on your home then refuse to pay them, they may seek to file such a lien on your home.

How do I look up liens on my property?

In most states, you can conduct a search with the county recorder, clerk, or assessor’s office online. You may also be able to go to online property portals and enter your address. You may also hire a title company to do the work for you, but this costs money.

What does a lien do to a property?

A lien is a legal claim against a piece of property. As such, they can prevent property owners from borrowing against or selling their homes as it prevents the seller from showing that they have “clear title” to the property.