The Best Real Estate Attorneys in Custer, MT
Find experienced real estate attorneys in Custer, Montana. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in Custer
Steven J. Lehman
Law Office of Steven J. Lehman
Steven J. Lehman has over 18 years of experience specializing in real estate law, with a strong focus on residential and commercial property transactions in the Custer area and throughout Yellowstone County. He is highly rated for client satisfaction, with a proven track record in handling complex title issues, land use agreements, and contract negotiations. His practice is known for personalized service and efficient case outcomes, making him a top choice for real estate legal matters in the region.
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James B. O'Connell
O'Connell Law Office
James B. O'Connell brings 20 years of dedicated real estate law experience, serving clients in Custer and the broader Billings metropolitan area. His expertise includes land use planning, property disputes, and real estate closings, with a reputation for achieving favorable outcomes through meticulous attention to detail. Clients consistently praise his professionalism and ability to navigate complex legal issues, supported by numerous positive reviews and a high success rate in transactions and litigation.
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David M. Wagner
Wagner Law Firm
David M. Wagner has 15 years of experience in real estate law, with a practice that extends to Custer and surrounding communities. He specializes in commercial and residential real estate transactions, lease agreements, and property development issues. Known for his strategic approach and client-centered service, Wagner has built a strong reputation for resolving disputes efficiently and providing clear legal guidance. His firm's high rating and substantial client feedback reflect his commitment to excellence in real estate legal services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What specific local zoning or land use issues in Custer County, MT, should I discuss with a real estate attorney before buying rural property?
In Custer County, it's crucial to discuss subdivision regulations, agricultural zoning (AG), and potential easements for irrigation or ranch access with an attorney. They can help you understand minimum parcel sizes, well and septic requirements specific to the area, and any conservation easements that may affect your intended use of the land, which is common in Montana's rural landscapes.
How can a Custer-based real estate attorney help with a transaction involving mineral rights, which are common in this part of Montana?
A local attorney is essential for reviewing the property's title history to determine if mineral rights have been severed, which is frequent in Montana's resource-rich regions. They can explain the implications of surface use agreements, negotiate terms to protect your surface property, and ensure the deed accurately reflects what rights are being conveyed in the sale.
What are typical fee structures for a real estate attorney in a smaller Montana town like Custer, and what services are usually included?
In Custer, attorneys often charge a flat fee for straightforward transactions like reviewing a purchase agreement or conducting a title review, which may range from $750-$1,500. For more complex matters like boundary disputes or drafting easements, hourly rates ($150-$250/hr) are common. These fees typically cover title examination, document preparation, and coordinating with the local Custer County Clerk and Recorder's office.
Why might I need a local Custer attorney instead of one from a larger Montana city for closing on a recreational or agricultural property?
A Custer-based attorney has specific knowledge of local title companies, surveyors, and the practices of the Custer County Clerk & Recorder's office. They are also more familiar with region-specific issues like water rights from the Yellowstone River watershed, county-specific subdivision regulations, and common covenants for ranchland, ensuring a smoother transaction tailored to the local market.
What role does a real estate attorney play in resolving a boundary dispute with a neighbor on my rural Custer County land?
A local attorney can help by first obtaining and interpreting the original plat and survey from the Custer County records, which may be complex for older homesteads. They can then negotiate with the adjoining landowner, draft a boundary line agreement, and, if necessary, file a quiet title action in Montana's 16th Judicial District Court to legally resolve the dispute and prevent future conflicts.
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