Comments
pixel_of_moral_decay t1_ja9ewux wrote
I saw over $2k, and as little as $1k calling a few. Yours seems pretty in line with what I’d say is average. I think I spent around the same.
It really depends on the transaction. Foreclosures, title issues, legal issues the HOA is encountering, even some easements may mean you’ll need a lawyer to really dig into what you’re getting involved in. There’s a premium for that.
For a typical closing? 1500ish seems about right.
Regardless, you’re talking a fraction of a percent of the purchase price. No need to cheap out or bargain shop. IMHO just pick the lawyer who spends a few minutes asking some good questions about your purchase and sounds like they’ve got something to offer. They’re literally the only person who’s acting on your behalf in the transaction. And you’ll deal with them a bit. So someone you feel has your interests in mind, and feel comfortable working with is worth an extra couple dollars.
ilikeUni OP t1_ja9l2fw wrote
I appreciate you saying to not cheap out on the lawyer at a fraction of the cost of the purchase, that put things into perspective. My real estate agent recommended someone to me so if the price is not outrageously higher than the rest, then I wouldn’t even shop around further. I rather go in recommendation than not.
Puzzlekitt t1_jaaj9kq wrote
You can message me if you want some choices. I’ve had the same 3-4 lawyers recommended to me through various agents in this city.
HobokenJ t1_jaczf61 wrote
This. Your realtor is NOT a fiduciary, nor do they have any legal requirement to act in your best interests (and it is in their best financial interests to align with the listing agent on most matters). Your lawyer is the only person who is truly in your corner during this transaction.
That said, $1200-$2000 is about right for a standard, residential closing (I probably wouldn't go with your realtor's rec).
EDIT: OK, I misspoke due to my disdain for the real estate industry. Yes, realtors do have a nebulous legal obligation to "act in the best interests" of their client--as does any fiduciary. But see comment below as to why they rarely do.
nerdmom2020 t1_ja9k80m wrote
$1600 for a typical closing
ashlandbus t1_ja9g79r wrote
$1350 fixed bid 2 years ago
hrckw32 t1_ja9i1b3 wrote
Most will be $1500-$2000 flat fee for buyers
teamvella t1_ja9ul5n wrote
Just paid $2500, but mine ended up having some extensive back and forth towards the end with the seller over some repairs
GetCatnipBack t1_jaa0toe wrote
$1650 flat rate, bought last summer. I called several lawyers recommended by our realtor and they were all within $50 of each other.
MichaelDeMarcoCEO t1_ja9hesj wrote
$2200
serialfan88 t1_ja9iac3 wrote
$1700 and closed last December
[deleted] t1_ja9kg65 wrote
[deleted]
Zugzool t1_ja9ye6t wrote
1500 a couple years ago
kungpowkow t1_ja9ygh1 wrote
Also, check to see if your employer offers an employee legal plan. If so, a real estate lawyer through your employee legal plan could be much less
susangjc t1_jaa0bap wrote
I'd make sure whoever you use has handled purchases in Jersey City before (or at least Hudson County). I found it helpful to have someone who knew what was standard and what was weird here.
shanes3t t1_jaa0v3r wrote
For that type of transaction, you'll probably get one to work for a flat fee with half up front.
Es-py t1_jaa3i3n wrote
1500 - should be closing in a couple weeks.
ilikeUni OP t1_jaa5rcs wrote
Congrats!
Mindless-Budget9019 t1_jaa6b13 wrote
1250-1500 for me.
whybother5000 t1_jaabwvj wrote
1500-2000
flapjack212 t1_jaanqhg wrote
i called around, between 1200-1800 out of the 6 or 8 folks i called
some will take a legal plan if you have that through work so it could be free
Aggravating_Sand352 t1_jaaofnv wrote
1400-1500 flat rate in process of buying now
axp051 t1_jaaxpzm wrote
I paid a flat fee of 1500 about 1.5 years ago.
BikingVikingNYC t1_jabzziu wrote
I paid $1500 flat 3 years ago
Especiallymoist t1_jac7wbf wrote
$1600 last year for a condo
jcleitz t1_jackexj wrote
1600 flat rate with $250 fee if you complete attorney review but cancel transaction
Puzzlekitt t1_ja9ccmg wrote
I paid around 1600 six years ago. I remember the quotes I got were all within range of each other. Probably call around and get the rates then decide, as I'm sure my experience is a bit outdated.