The Best Real Estate Attorneys in Wakefield, MA
Find experienced real estate attorneys in Wakefield, Massachusetts. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in Wakefield
David A. Bunis
Bunis Law Group
David A. Bunis is a highly respected real estate attorney with over 25 years of experience, serving Wakefield and the Greater Boston area. He specializes in residential and commercial real estate transactions, including purchases, sales, refinancing, and title issues. With a 4.9 rating from 120+ reviews, he is praised for his attention to detail, responsiveness, and successful case outcomes. His firm, founded in 2000, has a strong reputation for client satisfaction and legal expertise in real estate law.
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John J. Reilly
Law Offices of John J. Reilly
John J. Reilly is an experienced real estate attorney with 20 years in practice, serving Wakefield and surrounding communities. He focuses on real estate transactions, land use, and zoning matters, with a track record of favorable outcomes for clients. Rated 4.8 from 85 reviews, he is known for his professionalism, deep knowledge of Massachusetts real estate law, and commitment to client communication. His firm, established in 2002, is well-regarded for handling complex real estate issues.
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Michael T. Furlong
Furlong Law Group
Michael T. Furlong is a reputable real estate attorney with 18 years of experience, providing services to Wakefield and the North Shore area. He specializes in real estate litigation, transactions, and dispute resolution, with a 4.7 rating from 70+ reviews highlighting his strategic approach and client-focused service. His firm, founded in 2005, has built a strong reputation for handling challenging real estate cases and achieving positive results for homeowners and businesses.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What specific local zoning or permitting issues in Wakefield, MA, should I discuss with a real estate attorney before buying a property?
A Wakefield real estate attorney can advise on local zoning bylaws, which may affect additions or business use, and the town's specific wetland and conservation regulations near Lake Quannapowitt. They can also help navigate the Town of Wakefield's permitting process for renovations, which is crucial in this historic community to avoid costly violations.
How can a Wakefield attorney help with reviewing a Purchase and Sale Agreement for a home in Massachusetts?
A local attorney will ensure the P&S agreement complies with Massachusetts law and includes critical contingencies specific to the area, such as septic system inspections for older homes or reviews of any Lake Quannapowitt watershed restrictions. They protect your interests by clarifying terms, deadlines, and the implications of the standard-form Massachusetts Realtor agreements.
What are typical fee structures for a real estate attorney in Wakefield, and what do they usually cover?
Most attorneys in Wakefield charge a flat fee for a standard residential transaction, typically ranging from $1,200 to $2,000. This fee generally covers title examination, drafting and reviewing documents, coordinating with the registry of deeds, and overseeing the closing. Complex deals or litigation will involve hourly billing, so always request a detailed engagement letter upfront.
Why is a title search by a local Wakefield attorney particularly important when buying a home here?
Wakefield has many historic properties with complex title histories, potential unrecorded easements, or old plot plan discrepancies. A local attorney will conduct a thorough title search at the Southern Essex District Registry of Deeds to uncover issues like unresolved inheritance claims, liens, or violations of local bylaws that could jeopardize your ownership.
When selling a home in Wakefield, MA, what legal responsibilities do I have regarding property condition disclosures?
Massachusetts law requires sellers to provide a comprehensive Seller's Statement of Property Condition disclosure. A Wakefield attorney can guide you on properly disclosing known issues, such as lead paint, asbestos in older homes, the age of the roof, or any history of flooding or septic problems, which helps limit future liability and ensures compliance with state law.
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