The Best Real Estate Attorneys in Ellsworth, IA
Find experienced real estate attorneys in Ellsworth, Iowa. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in Ellsworth
Michael J. Galligan
Galligan Law
Michael J. Galligan is a highly-rated real estate attorney with over 18 years of experience, focusing on residential and commercial real estate transactions, disputes, and planning. He is known for his client-centered approach, with numerous positive reviews highlighting his responsiveness, expertise, and successful case outcomes. His firm has built a strong reputation in Central Iowa for handling complex real estate matters efficiently.
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Kevin H. Collins
Collins & Brown, P.C.
Kevin H. Collins is an experienced real estate attorney with two decades of practice, specializing in commercial and residential real estate, land use, and development law. He has a proven track record of achieving favorable results for clients, with high client satisfaction ratings and a reputation for thoroughness and professionalism in handling real estate transactions and litigation throughout Iowa.
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David A. Hanson
Hanson, Bjork & Russell, L.L.P.
David A. Hanson is a co-founder of Hanson, Bjork & Russell with over 22 years of experience in real estate law, including transactions, zoning, and dispute resolution. He is highly
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Frequently Asked Questions
What specific local issues in Ellsworth, IA, should I discuss with a real estate attorney before buying farmland?
In Ellsworth and Story County, it's crucial to discuss Iowa's Right-to-Farm laws, which can limit nuisance lawsuits against established agricultural operations. An attorney can also review any local drainage district assessments, tile easements, and ensure the property's zoning (A-1 Agricultural) aligns with your intended use, as county-level regulations are key.
How can a real estate attorney in Ellsworth help with a 'For Sale By Owner' (FSBO) transaction?
An Ellsworth-based attorney can draft or review the purchase agreement to ensure it complies with Iowa law and includes all necessary contingencies, such as a well and septic inspection for rural properties. They will conduct a title search to uncover any liens or ownership issues specific to the parcel and handle the closing to ensure a legally sound transfer of the deed.
Are there unique title issues for older properties in Ellsworth that a real estate attorney should check?
Yes, older family farms or properties in Ellsworth may have incomplete chains of title due to historical heirship transfers without formal probate. A local attorney will search for any abstract continuation issues, unrecorded family agreements, or old mineral rights reservations that are common in Iowa and could affect your clear ownership.
What should I expect to pay for a real estate attorney's services for a standard residential closing in Ellsworth, IA?
Fees typically range from $500 to $1,200 for a standard transaction, often charged as a flat fee. This usually covers title examination, drafting documents, and attending the closing. Costs can be higher for complex titles, agricultural land, or if litigation is involved. Always request a detailed fee agreement upfront.
When is it absolutely necessary to hire a real estate attorney for a transaction in Ellsworth, versus using a title company alone?
You should hire an attorney for any non-standard transaction, such as purchasing inherited property, dividing farmland in an estate, dealing with boundary disputes based on old fence lines, or drafting a contract for a private land sale. For a straightforward purchase with a mortgage lender, a title company often handles the closing, but an attorney provides crucial legal advice for complex situations.
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