The Best Real Estate Attorneys in Frankfort, SD
Find experienced real estate attorneys in Frankfort, South Dakota. Compare 3 top-rated lawyers specializing in property transactions, closings, and real estate law.
Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in Frankfort
Joshua M. Mertens
Mertens Law Office
Joshua M. Mertens is a highly regarded real estate attorney with over 18 years of experience serving clients across South Dakota, including Frankfort. He specializes in real estate transactions, property disputes, zoning issues, and commercial real estate matters. Known for his client-focused approach and strong negotiation skills, he has built a reputation for achieving favorable outcomes in complex real estate cases. His practice is praised for thoroughness and accessibility, with numerous positive reviews highlighting his expertise in rural and urban property law.
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David L. Pagel
Pagel Law Firm
David L. Pagel has been practicing law for over 20 years, with a strong focus on real estate law serving Frankfort and surrounding areas. He assists clients with property purchases, sales, leases, title issues, and land use disputes. His extensive experience in both rural and urban real estate matters makes him a trusted advisor, and he is known for his practical solutions and commitment to client satisfaction. Pagel's firm has a solid track record in resolving real estate conflicts efficiently.
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Tracy L. DeKraai
DeKraai Law Firm
Tracy L. DeKraai is an accomplished real estate attorney with over 13 years of experience, serving clients in Frankfort and throughout eastern South Dakota. She specializes in real estate transactions, property disputes, and title examinations, and is recognized for her meticulous attention to detail and effective problem-solving skills. Her firm has a strong reputation for client satisfaction, with many reviews commending her ability to handle complex real estate matters with professionalism and care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What specific local zoning or land use issues in Frankfort, SD, should I discuss with a real estate attorney before buying vacant land?
In Frankfort and Spink County, you should discuss agricultural zoning (A-1), potential easements for irrigation or landlocked parcels, and local subdivision regulations. A Frankfort attorney can review the county's comprehensive plan and verify if your intended use complies, as rural areas often have strict rules on building placement, septic systems, and well permits.
How can a Frankfort real estate attorney help with a transaction involving a property with mineral rights in Spink County?
A local attorney is crucial for reviewing the property's title history to determine if mineral rights were previously severed, which is common in South Dakota. They can interpret existing leases, negotiate terms with energy companies, and ensure surface use agreements protect your land interests, as mineral rights can significantly impact property value and use.
What are the typical fees for a real estate attorney in Frankfort, SD, to handle a residential closing?
Fees in Frankfort are often a flat rate ranging from $750 to $1,500 for a standard residential closing, depending on complexity. This typically includes title review, preparing and reviewing documents, and attending the closing. Always request a detailed fee agreement upfront, as costs can be higher for properties with title issues or complex financing.
Do I need a Frankfort-based attorney to handle a quiet title action for a family-owned farm in Spink County?
Yes, it's highly advisable. A local attorney will have specific experience with South Dakota's quiet title statutes and the Spink County court procedures. They understand common rural title issues like heirship problems from outdated estates, old mortgages, or ambiguous boundary descriptions from historical farm plots, ensuring the action is filed correctly and efficiently.
What should I look for when hiring a real estate attorney in Frankfort for reviewing a contract on an acreage property?
Look for an attorney with specific experience in rural and agricultural real estate in South Dakota. They should be familiar with well and septic system regulations, drainage and water rights issues common in the James River watershed, and representations about land productivity. Verify they have strong relationships with local title companies and surveyors in Spink County.
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