Commercial Real Estate

Commercial Real Estate

Effective legal counsel starts here.

The De Bruin Law Firm represents banks, mortgage companies, and individuals in real estate closings for single family homes, as well as multi-site properties, including hotels, motels, factories, and other commercial properties.

If you own a business and are buying or selling real estate, our real estate closing services can help. Our business law knowledge combined with our real estate services allow corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and sole proprietors to know their closing will be handled correctly.

South Carolina Commercial Real Estate Lawyer

Working in the complex world of commercial real estate in South Carolina requires more than just a sharp eye for profitable properties. Whether you’re an investor, broker, or agent, having a seasoned South Carolina commercial real estate lawyer by your side is essential.

From managing legal compliance and drafting airtight contracts to ensuring a smooth closing process, a South Carolina commercial real estate lawyer plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your interests in every transaction.

Title Insurance

Title insurance is one of the most critical protections in any real estate transaction, especially in commercial dealings where large sums of money and property value are at stake. A South Carolina commercial real estate lawyer ensures that your title is clear and marketable before you finalize a deal.

What is Title Insurance?

Title insurance protects buyers and lenders from financial loss due to defects in a property’s title, such as unknown liens, encumbrances, errors in public records, or fraudulent documentation. Unlike other forms of insurance that protect against future events, title insurance covers past events that could disrupt your legal ownership.

The Role of a South Carolina Commercial Real Estate Lawyer in Working with Title Insurance

A commercial real estate lawyer in South Carolina typically performs a thorough title search to uncover any issues. If defects are found, the attorney will work to resolve them—negotiating lien releases, clarifying boundary disputes, or correcting filing errors. Once the title is cleared, the lawyer can issue a title opinion and coordinate with a title company to secure your policy.

In South Carolina, attorneys are legally required to handle real estate closings and often work directly with title companies. This integrated role ensures there’s no gap between legal counsel and title protection—offering peace of mind to buyers and lenders alike.

Services for Real Estate Investors

South Carolina is an attractive market for commercial real estate investors due to its growing population, business-friendly climate, and strategic location. Whether you’re acquiring retail space, industrial properties, or multi-family units, a commercial real estate lawyer is a vital part of your investment strategy.

Property Due Diligence

Before committing capital, investors need to conduct thorough due diligence—a process your lawyer can spearhead. This includes reviewing:

  • Zoning regulations and land use restrictions
  • Environmental assessments and compliance
  • Property tax assessments and implications
  • Lease agreements and tenant obligations (if buying income-producing property)
  • Easements, rights of way, or encroachments

A skilled lawyer will identify legal red flags and help you make informed investment decisions, potentially saving you thousands—or even millions—in the long run.

Entity Formation and Structuring

Investors often operate through LLCs, partnerships, or REITs to protect personal assets and optimize tax liabilities. A South Carolina commercial real estate attorney can advise on entity formation, draft operating agreements, and ensure you’re compliant with state and federal regulations.

Negotiation and Contract Review

Commercial property deals involve intricate contracts, including letters of intent (LOIs), purchase agreements, lease contracts, and financing terms. Your South Carolina commercial real estate lawyer ensures these documents align with your interests, negotiating favorable terms and minimizing risk exposure.

Services for Agents and Brokers

Real estate agents and brokers in South Carolina also benefit from working closely with commercial real estate attorneys. While agents focus on marketing, negotiations, and client service, lawyers handle the legal side of the transaction—creating a seamless and secure process for all parties.

Drafting and Reviewing Contracts

A key service provided to agents and brokers is contract review and drafting. Lawyers can help draft:

  • Listing agreements
  • Purchase and sale contracts
  • Lease agreements
  • Commission agreements

Having a South Carolina commercial real estate lawyer involved ensures contracts are legally sound and tailored to each unique transaction, helping agents avoid legal disputes down the line.

Dispute Resolution and Mediation

Conflicts occasionally arise in commercial transactions, whether over deposits, contingencies, or performance obligations. A commercial real estate lawyer can act as a mediator or litigator, helping agents and brokers resolve issues swiftly and professionally—before they escalate into costly lawsuits.

Compliance with South Carolina Law

South Carolina has strict regulations regarding real estate practice, disclosures, and closings. An experienced attorney helps ensure agents and brokers comply with:

  • SC Real Estate Commission regulations
  • Disclosure laws for environmental hazards or defects
  • Anti-fraud and fair dealing statutes

This guidance protects agents’ licenses and reputations, while also reducing risk for their clients.

Services for Commercial Real Estate Transactions

Commercial real estate transactions are typically more complex than residential ones. From multi-party agreements to regulatory compliance, there’s a lot at stake. A South Carolina commercial real estate lawyer plays an integral role throughout the process, offering legal oversight and strategic advice.

Purchase and Sale Agreements

A commercial property sale involves detailed purchase and sale agreements that include:

  • Contingency clauses
  • Inspection periods
  • Financing conditions
  • Closing obligations
  • Escrow provisions

Your South Carolina commercial real estate lawyer ensures every clause is clear, enforceable, and aligned with your goals—while identifying and mitigating risks before they become problems.

Lease Agreements

Commercial leases are not “one size fits all.” Whether you’re a landlord or tenant, a lawyer can help draft or review:

  • Triple net (NNN) leases
  • Gross and modified gross leases
  • Build-to-suit or ground leases
  • Subleases and lease assignments

These documents require careful attention to rental terms, repair responsibilities, termination clauses, and renewal options. A South Carolina real estate lawyer will customize the lease to your specific needs and market conditions.

Financing and Loan Documentation

Commercial real estate deals often involve complex financing structures, such as conventional loans, bridge loans, or seller financing. Your lawyer can:

  • Review loan documents
  • Negotiate with lenders
  • Address collateral and guarantees
  • Ensure compliance with Dodd-Frank and banking laws

Having a South Carolina commercial real estate lawyer during the financing process protects you from hidden fees, unfair terms, or breach of lending agreements.

Real Estate Closing

In South Carolina, real estate closings must be conducted by licensed attorneys. This makes your lawyer not just an optional consultant but a mandatory part of the transaction.

Closing Coordination

A commercial real estate lawyer manages the entire closing process, including:

  • Coordinating between buyers, sellers, lenders, agents, and title companies
  • Preparing the HUD-1 settlement statement or Closing Disclosure
  • Facilitating wire transfers and escrow disbursements
  • Verifying proper execution of all documents

Their job is to ensure that everything is in place for a smooth, legal, and timely closing.

Recording and Final Documentation

After closing, the South Carolina commercial real estate lawyer is responsible for recording the deed and mortgage documents with the appropriate county office. They also issue final title policies and provide closing binders to all parties, ensuring you have the proper documentation for your records and tax filings.

Post-Closing Support

Sometimes, issues arise after the closing, such as a missed lien, an easement dispute, or a breach of contract. A commercial real estate attorney can help you address these matters through negotiation, mediation, or litigation—continuing to protect your interests long after the deal is done.

Secure Your Commercial Real Estate Transactions Today

Commercial real estate transactions in South Carolina are governed by a complex web of legal requirements, due diligence processes, and contract negotiations. Whether you’re an investor, broker, agent, or business owner, partnering with a South Carolina commercial real estate lawyer is not just smart—it’s essential.

From securing clean title insurance and structuring your investments to navigating leases, financing, and closings, these legal professionals help you protect your interests, avoid costly mistakes, and complete transactions with confidence.

If you’re preparing to buy, sell, or lease commercial property in South Carolina, don’t leave your success to chance. Consult a qualified commercial real estate attorney to guide you every step of the way.

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