The Best Real Estate Attorneys in Wilmington, NC
Find experienced real estate attorneys in Wilmington, North Carolina. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in Wilmington
J. Mitchell Taylor
Marshall & Taylor, PLLC
J. Mitchell Taylor is a highly respected real estate attorney with over 25 years of experience serving Wilmington and surrounding areas. As managing partner of Marshall & Taylor, he specializes in residential and commercial real estate transactions, including complex closings, title examination, and development matters. His firm maintains a perfect 5.0 rating from the North Carolina State Bar and has earned numerous client accolades for meticulous attention to detail and responsive service. Taylor is particularly known for his expertise in coastal property transactions and development law in the Wilmington market.
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Stephen T. Byrd
Ward and Smith, P.A.
Stephen Byrd is a seasoned real estate attorney with Ward and Smith, one of Eastern North Carolina's most prominent law firms. With nearly two decades of experience, he focuses on commercial real estate development, financing, and land use matters throughout the Wilmington region. Byrd has extensive experience representing developers, investors, and businesses in complex real estate transactions, including mixed-use developments and coastal property projects. He is recognized for his strategic approach to zoning and regulatory compliance in the growing Wilmington market.
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T. LaFontise B. Middleton III
Beaver Courie, PLLC
LaFontise Middleton leads the real estate practice at Beaver Courie, bringing 15 years of comprehensive real estate law experience to Wilmington clients. His practice encompasses residential transactions, title insurance, and real estate dispute resolution. Middleton is particularly skilled in handling complex residential closings and property boundary disputes common in the coastal Wilmington area. Clients consistently praise his thorough approach to due diligence and his ability to navigate challenging real estate situations while maintaining clear communication throughout the process.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is a real estate attorney required for a property closing in Wilmington, NC?
While North Carolina law does not mandate an attorney for all closings, it is highly recommended and often required by lenders. An attorney is essential for reviewing the title search, ensuring there are no liens or encumbrances specific to New Hanover County, and properly drafting and recording the deed to finalize the transaction legally.
What are common local issues a Wilmington real estate attorney can help with regarding coastal properties?
Wilmington attorneys frequently handle issues unique to coastal living, such as verifying flood zone designations (crucial for insurance), reviewing restrictive covenants in waterfront communities like Landfall, and ensuring compliance with CAMA (Coastal Area Management Act) regulations for any construction or renovation near the Intracoastal Waterway or beaches.
How much does a real estate attorney typically cost for a residential closing in Wilmington?
Fees vary but typically range from $500 to $1,500 for a standard residential closing, depending on the property's complexity and value. This fee generally covers the title examination, closing document preparation, and conducting the settlement. It's advisable to get a detailed quote upfront, as costs for handling issues like unclear titles or historic district easements may be higher.
Can a Wilmington attorney help with disputes over property lines or easements in historic districts?
Yes, local real estate attorneys are well-versed in resolving boundary disputes, which are common in older Wilmington neighborhoods like the Historic District or Carolina Heights. They can review historic plats, survey records, and city ordinances to interpret easements and property lines, and can represent you in mediation or court if a resolution with neighbors is not possible.
What specific services do Wilmington attorneys offer for new construction or condo purchases?
For new construction in areas like RiverLights or Mayfaire, attorneys review builder contracts, ensure mechanic's lien waivers are obtained from subcontractors, and verify that all permits are in order. For condo purchases, they scrutinize the Homeowners' Association (HOA) covenants, budgets, and reserve studies for complexes downtown or at Wrightsville Beach to uncover any potential special assessments or restrictions.
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