The Best Real Estate Attorneys in Sumner, ME
Find experienced real estate attorneys in Sumner, Maine. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in Sumner
Kevin M. Noonan
Law Office of Kevin M. Noonan
Kevin M. Noonan is a highly regarded real estate attorney with over 18 years of experience serving Oxford County and surrounding areas, including Sumner. He specializes in residential and commercial real estate transactions, title examinations, and land use matters. Clients consistently praise his meticulous attention to detail, personalized approach, and successful outcomes in complex real estate deals. With a strong reputation for client satisfaction, he has built a practice focused on providing accessible legal services to rural communities.
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James A. Trafton
Trafton & Matzen, LLP
James A. Trafton is a senior partner at Trafton & Matzen with 25 years of experience in real estate law, serving clients in Sumner and across Androscoggin County. He is known for handling complex real estate transactions, zoning issues, and municipal law matters with a track record of favorable case outcomes. His expertise in land use and development has earned him a strong professional reputation, and client reviews highlight his strategic advice and reliability in high-stakes situations.
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David B. Van Dyk
Van Dyk Law
David B. Van Dyk is the founder of Van Dyk Law, with 16 years of experience specializing in real estate law. Serving clients throughout Maine, including Sumner, he is recognized for efficiently managing real estate closings, contract negotiations, and dispute resolution. His practice emphasizes client-centered service, resulting in high satisfaction ratings for his responsiveness and expertise. Clients appreciate his ability to navigate challenging real estate issues with clarity and professionalism.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What specific local issues in Sumner, ME, should I discuss with a real estate attorney before buying land?
In Sumner, you should specifically discuss Maine's Subsurface Wastewater Disposal Rules (HHE-200) for septic system suitability, the town's shoreland zoning ordinances if your property is near a water body, and verifying there are no unrecorded rights-of-way or timber harvesting rights. An attorney familiar with Oxford County can also check for any local land use restrictions or conservation easements unique to the area.
How can a Sumner real estate attorney help with a boundary dispute involving old stone walls or unmarked lines?
A local attorney can help commission a new survey by a Maine-licensed surveyor to establish the legal property lines. They can then interpret the survey in the context of Maine's common law regarding boundaries and adverse possession, and work with the Sumner town office to resolve the dispute, potentially through a formal boundary line agreement recorded at the Oxford County Registry of Deeds.
Do I need a real estate attorney in Sumner to review a Purchase and Sale Agreement for a seasonal camp?
Yes, it's highly advisable. A local attorney can ensure the agreement addresses Maine-specific issues like the condition and compliance of the seasonal septic system, clarity on furniture and contents included in the sale, and provisions for the well water test required by state law. They can also advise on the implications of the property being taxed as a seasonal versus year-round residence.
What are common fee structures for real estate attorneys in a small town like Sumner, Maine?
Most attorneys in the Sumner area charge a flat fee for standard residential transactions, which typically ranges from $800 to $1,500. For more complex matters like drafting land contracts, resolving title issues, or litigation, they will usually charge an hourly rate, often between $150 and $250 per hour. Always request a written fee agreement upfront.
Can a Sumner-based attorney help me understand the tax implications of inheriting a family property in Maine?
Absolutely. A local real estate attorney can explain Maine's inheritance tax laws, including any potential liability for the estate or beneficiaries. They can also guide you through the probate process at the Oxford County Probate Court and advise on steps like a step-up in basis to minimize capital gains tax if you decide to sell the inherited property.
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