BOOK A FREE CONSULT

Buying a Home

Your Trusted Legal Guide in Connecticut

Are you ready to buy a new home, condominium, or vacant property? For more than 30 years, we have helped our clients navigate every kind of real estate purchase. We give you the attention you deserve by combining personal relationships and dedicated attention with the latest technology. We work to get you from contract to move-in with the least worry and stress possible.

Confidence in Every Step of the Buying Process

When you buy a home, your journey should be exciting, not overwhelming. Our attorneys and skilled paralegals work as your legal shield, protecting your interests at every turn. We don’t just handle paperwork; we provide legal support that gives you peace of mind.

We provide comprehensive support for homebuyers:

Z

Contract Protection

We thoroughly review all documents to ensure your contract contains the necessary contingencies (like the mortgage contingency) that protect your deposit and your rights.

Z

Title Clarity

We handle the complex title search process, resolving any hidden liens, claims, or errors to ensure you receive a clean title and own your property free and clear.

Z

Smooth Closing

We coordinate with lenders, agents, and all parties involved to oversee your final closing. We work efficiently, making certain your closing meets all legal and financial requirements.

Z

Dispute Prevention

We structure our legal review to work proactively on your behalf. We identify and resolve potential issues that can lead to costly and time-consuming contract terminations.

BOOK A FREE CONSULT

Critical Legal Protections for Homebuyers

As a homebuyer, you rely on specific legal instruments for protecting your investment. We make sure these protections are in place:

Z

Mortgage Contingency

This clause is crucial to ensure your rights if you’re unable to secure a mortgage commitment under the agreed-upon terms:

We help you understand and enforce these complex provisions.

Z

Title Insurance

Unlike other insurance that protects against future risks, Title Insurance protects you against past issues, such as forged documents, mistakes in public records, or unpaid prior liens. We advise you on obtaining the necessary Owner’s Policy to secure your equity.

Z

Home Inspection Contingency

Your agent is the expert to guide you through the process of addressing deficiencies found in the inspection, helping to negotiate resolutions or, if necessary, terminate the contract while recovering your deposit. We can assist with this if needed.

BOOK A FREE CONSULT

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I Need a Real Estate Attorney?
    Many buyers and sellers wonder whether they need a real estate attorney. A real estate attorney helps protect your interests throughout the transaction by reviewing contracts, examining title issues, coordinating with lenders, and ensuring that ownership is transferred properly. An attorney can also address problems that arise before closing, such as title defects, survey issues, liens, or disputes involving inspections and repairs. Having experienced legal counsel can help make the transaction smoother and avoid costly mistakes.
  • What Happens at a Real Estate Closing?
    A real estate closing is the final step in buying or selling a home. During the closing, documents are signed, funds are exchanged, and ownership of the property is transferred. Typical closing documents include:
    • The deed.
    • Mortgage documents.
    • Settlement statements.
    • Loan disclosures.
    • Tax and escrow documents.
    Once the documents are signed and recorded, the buyer becomes the legal owner of the property.
  • How Much Are Closing Costs?
    Closing costs are expenses associated with buying or selling real estate. They are separate from the purchase price and vary depending on the property and financing. Common closing costs include:
    • Attorney fees.
    • Title insurance premiums.
    • Recording fees.
    • Lender fees.
    • Appraisal fees.
    • Property taxes and escrow deposits.
    • Homeowner’s insurance premiums.
    Buyers and sellers should review their closing disclosures carefully to understand these costs before the closing date.
  • What Is Title Insurance and Do I Need It?
    Title insurance protects property owners and lenders from losses caused by defects in title that may not be discovered before closing. Examples include:
    • Unknown liens.
    • Errors in public records.
    • Forged documents.
    • Boundary disputes.
    • Undisclosed heirs.
    Unlike other types of insurance, title insurance is generally purchased once at closing and provides protection for as long as you own the property. Most lenders require lender’s title insurance, and many buyers choose owner’s title insurance for additional protection.
  • How Long Does It Take to Buy a House?
    The process of buying a house typically takes several weeks, although the exact timeline depends on financing, inspections, title work, and other factors. The process generally includes:
    1. Signing a purchase agreement.
    2. Obtaining mortgage approval.
    3. Completing inspections.
    4. Performing title work.
    5. Preparing closing documents.
    6. Attending the closing.
    Most residential transactions are completed within forty-five to sixty days from the date the contract is signed.
  • What Is a Purchase and Sale Agreement?
    A purchase and sale agreement is the contract between the buyer and seller that outlines the terms of the transaction. The agreement generally includes:
    • Purchase price.
    • Financing terms.
    • Inspection contingencies.
    • Closing date.
    • Included fixtures and personal property.
    • Responsibilities of each party.
    Because the contract governs the entire transaction, buyers and sellers should understand its terms before signing.
  • What Happens If Problems Are Found During a Home Inspection?
    A home inspection is designed to identify defects or maintenance concerns before the closing. If problems are discovered, several options may be available:
    • The seller may agree to make repairs.
    • The parties may negotiate a credit.
    • The purchase price may be adjusted.
    • The buyer may choose to proceed without changes.
    • In some cases, the buyer may terminate the contract.
    Reviewing inspection issues promptly helps prevent delays and misunderstandings during the transaction.
  • Can I Buy a House Without a Realtor?
    Yes. Buyers can purchase a home without a realtor, although doing so means they will be responsible for many aspects of the transaction themselves. Without a realtor, buyers may need to:
    • Locate properties.
    • Negotiate purchase terms.
    • Coordinate inspections.
    • Review disclosures.
    • Work directly with lenders and attorneys.
    Many buyers choose to work with a real estate agent to help review contracts and protect their interests throughout the process.

Contact Us to Start Your Home Search

Contact Kane, Hartley & Kane if you’re thinking about buying a home or other property. We can take steps to protect your rights throughout the homebuying process. Our legal team can assist you with legal issues and paperwork, and we can help you avoid unnecessary complications.

From our office in Glastonbury, we work with real estate clients in Hartford, Middlesex, and Tolland Counties, and throughout Connecticut. To learn more about our real estate services, call us at (860) 633-3651 or leave a message on our contact page.

CALL US: (860) 633-3651