The Best Real Estate Attorneys in Newbury, MA
Find experienced real estate attorneys in Newbury, Massachusetts. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in Newbury
Kevin P. O'Keefe
O'Keefe Law Offices
Kevin P. O'Keefe is a highly respected real estate attorney with over 15 years of experience serving the Newbury area and North Shore region. He specializes in residential and commercial real estate transactions, including purchases, sales, refinancing, and title disputes. Clients consistently praise his meticulous attention to detail, responsive communication, and ability to navigate complex closings efficiently. His firm is known for personalized service and has a strong track record of successful outcomes in real estate matters.
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John D. Colbert
Colbert Law Office
John D. Colbert is an established real estate attorney with 12 years of experience, focusing on residential real estate transactions, including buyer and seller representation, title examination, and closing services. Based in Newburyport, he serves clients throughout the Newbury area and is recognized for his practical approach, thoroughness, and high client satisfaction. His practice also integrates estate planning and business law, providing comprehensive legal support for property-related matters.
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Michael T. Furlong
Furlong Law Group
Michael T. Furlong brings over 20 years of extensive real estate law experience to clients in Newbury and the broader North Shore area. His expertise covers commercial and residential real estate, including transactions, disputes, zoning, and land use issues. He is highly rated for his strategic litigation skills and successful negotiation of complex deals. With a reputation for professionalism and results-driven representation, his firm is a top choice for challenging real estate matters.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What specific local regulations in Newbury, MA, should a real estate attorney help me navigate during a property purchase?
A Newbury real estate attorney is crucial for navigating local bylaws, such as the town's Title V septic system regulations, wetland protection under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, and any historical district requirements if your property is in an area like Old Town. They ensure compliance with the Newbury Zoning Bylaw, which can affect lot coverage, setbacks, and permissible uses, preventing costly delays or violations.
How much does it typically cost to hire a real estate attorney for a residential closing in Newbury, and what does that fee cover?
Fees for a standard residential closing in Newbury typically range from $1,200 to $2,500, depending on the transaction's complexity. This fee generally covers title examination, drafting and reviewing the purchase and sale agreement, coordinating with the lender, conducting the closing, and recording the deed at the Essex County Registry of Deeds. Always request a detailed fee agreement upfront.
When is it absolutely necessary to hire a real estate attorney for a transaction in Massachusetts, even for a simple sale in Newbury?
In Massachusetts, unlike some states, an attorney is not legally required but is highly recommended for nearly all transactions. It is particularly necessary for complex deals, resolving title issues discovered at the Essex County Registry, drafting or negotiating the Purchase and Sale Agreement, and for any transaction involving easements, boundary disputes, or properties in Newbury's flood zones or conservation areas.
Can a Newbury real estate attorney help with issues related to properties in the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge or other conservation areas?
Yes, a local attorney with experience in environmental and conservation law is essential for properties near or within regulated areas like the Parker River Refuge. They can advise on federal and state restrictions, conservation easements held by organizations like the Essex County Greenbelt Association, and the permitting process with the Newbury Conservation Commission, which governs work near wetlands and waterways.
What should I look for when choosing a real estate attorney specifically for a new construction or major renovation project in Newbury, MA?
Look for an attorney experienced with Newbury's building permit process, the Massachusetts State Building Code, and contractor agreements. They should be adept at reviewing complex construction contracts, ensuring proper lien waivers from subcontractors, and verifying that all necessary permits from the Newbury Building Department are in order before funds are disbursed, protecting you from future liens and code violations.
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