The Best Real Estate Attorneys in San Francisco, CA
Find experienced real estate attorneys in San Francisco, California. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in San Francisco
Kevin R. Brodehl
Coblentz Patch Duffy & Bass LLP
Kevin R. Brodehl is a highly regarded real estate attorney with two decades of experience, specializing in complex commercial real estate transactions, land use, and development law. He has a proven track record of successfully handling high-value deals for clients, including acquisitions, dispositions, and financing. Known for his strategic approach and client-focused service, he maintains a perfect Avvo rating and is frequently recommended for his expertise in navigating San Francisco's unique real estate market. His practice emphasizes practical solutions and has resulted in numerous favorable outcomes for commercial and residential clients.
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R. Craig Scott
Coblentz Patch Duffy & Bass LLP
R. Craig Scott is an accomplished real estate attorney with nearly 20 years of experience, focusing on commercial real estate transactions, development projects, and business law. He has built a strong reputation for his work on leasing, financing, and joint ventures, often representing investors, developers, and corporations in San Francisco. Clients praise his attention to detail, negotiation skills, and ability to secure advantageous terms. With a high Avvo rating and consistent positive feedback, he is recognized for his reliability and deep knowledge of California real estate regulations.
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David A. Loev
Loev Law
David A. Loev is a top-rated real estate attorney with over 15 years of experience, known for his expertise in real estate transactions, business law, and litigation. He founded Loev Law with a focus on providing personalized legal services for residential and commercial clients, including contract disputes, property acquisitions, and landlord-tenant issues. His practice is characterized by high client satisfaction, with numerous reviews highlighting his responsiveness, strategic counsel, and successful case resolutions. He holds a perfect Avvo rating and is actively involved in the San Francisco legal community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it especially important to hire a local San Francisco real estate attorney for a residential purchase?
San Francisco has unique local ordinances, such as complex rent control laws under the Rent Ordinance, specific condo conversion rules, and stringent seismic retrofit requirements. A local attorney understands these nuances, can navigate the city's discretionary review process for certain properties, and ensures compliance with both California state law and San Francisco's specific regulations, which is critical for a smooth transaction.
What specific services do San Francisco real estate attorneys provide for tenants facing Ellis Act or Owner Move-In evictions?
A San Francisco attorney can advise tenants on their rights under the city's Just Cause for Eviction Ordinance, which offers stronger protections than state law. They can help negotiate relocation payments, challenge the validity of the eviction notice, and represent tenants in hearings before the San Francisco Rent Board. This local expertise is vital, as eviction defenses and compensation rules are highly specific to the city.
How do real estate attorneys in San Francisco assist with navigating the city's complex subdivision and lot line adjustment processes?
Attorneys familiar with San Francisco's Planning Code and the processes at the San Francisco Planning Department can guide property owners through obtaining conditional use authorizations, variances, or map approvals. They help prepare necessary documents, represent clients in hearings, and ensure compliance with local zoning laws, which are often more restrictive than state guidelines, especially for adding housing units.
What should I expect to pay for a real estate attorney when buying a condo in San Francisco?
Fees are typically structured as a flat rate for transactional work, ranging from $1,500 to $3,500+ for a standard condo purchase, depending on complexity. This covers review of the HOA documents (CC&Rs, budgets, meeting minutes), which is crucial in San Francisco given the prevalence of older buildings with potential special assessments for seismic or maintenance issues. Hourly rates for litigation or dispute resolution are higher, often $400-$700+ per hour.
Can a San Francisco real estate attorney help with issues related to an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or in-law unit?
Yes. A local attorney can advise on the specific requirements of San Francisco's ADU program, including planning code compliance, impact fees, and securing the necessary building permits from the Department of Building Inspection. They are also essential for legalizing an existing unpermitted unit, a common issue in the city, which involves navigating amnesty programs and ensuring the unit meets current safety codes.
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