The road to closing is short, with only a few stops. Generally, all steps are handled by the title and closing agency laid out in your contract. We at the De Bruin Law Firm hope that upon writing an offer, you let your real estate agent know you want us to be used as title and closing firm.

At closing, you will be there with (in some cases) a representative from your lender, your real estate agent, and an attorney who is acting as the closing agent.

As the closing agent, our job is to ensure all the necessary documents are signed and verified and that all funds are properly disbursed.

A well-drawn contract should protect all parties. It should include: the offering price, down payment, legal description of the property, method of conveying the title, fees to be paid and who will pay them, amount of a deposit, conditions under which the seller and buyer can void the contract, the settlement date, financing arrangements, and a list of appliances, furnishings, and personal property that are being sold with the home.

Once you accept a contract, you then look at closing on the deal.

While the closing of a residential or commercial real estate transaction is a moment to relish, the process also can be stressful and contentious. The buyer and seller will be asked to review and execute a plethora of documents that address property tax allocations, transfer of title, and other key terms of the transaction. These documents are filled with legal terms and technical provisions rather than simple English. When one or both of the parties does not understand the complex provisions in these documents or mistakes are made in the execution of the documents, the outcome of a closing can adversely affect your financial future and life for decades.

Given the enormous consequences of a mistake or misunderstanding during a closing, South Carolina law requires that an attorney be present. South Carolina real estate closing attorneys provide multiple services. The lawyer must ensure that both parties understand the terms and conditions of the transaction. The closing attorney also will review state and federal laws that impact the sale. While an attorney can only represent one party at the closing, the buyer’s lawyer can prepare the mandatory legal documents for the seller.

Although your real estate agent might point you in the direction of an attorney, you have the right to select the lawyer you want to represent your interests at the closing. The buyer and seller often will each have their own lawyer. Our Greenville real estate closing attorneys provide insightful legal advice and personalized attention. We pride ourselves on facilitating uneventful closings whenever possible and zealously protecting our clients’ rights.