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Top-Rated Real Estate Attorneys in Richardson

1

Donald E. Godwin

Godwin Bowman PC

★★★★☆
4.8/5

Donald Godwin is the founding shareholder of Godwin Bowman PC and has been recognized as one of Texas' leading real estate attorneys for over four decades. He specializes in complex commercial real estate transactions, development projects, and real estate litigation. With numerous awards including Texas Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America, he represents major developers, investors, and corporations in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, including Richardson clients. His firm maintains one of the largest real estate practices in North Texas.

Experience:45+ years
Reviews:48 client reviews
500 N. Akard Street, Suite 2200, Dallas, TX 75201

Practice Areas:

Commercial Real EstateReal Estate TransactionsReal Estate LitigationBusiness Law
2

Michael A. Shaunty

Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr PC

★★★★☆
4.7/5

Michael Shaunty chairs the Real Estate Practice Group at Munsch Hardt and has extensive experience representing clients in complex real estate matters throughout the DFW area, including Richardson. He focuses on real estate financing, acquisitions, dispositions, and development projects. Recognized by Chambers USA and Best Lawyers, he represents lenders, developers, and investors in transactions ranging from $5 million to over $500 million. His practice includes office, retail, industrial, and mixed-use developments throughout North Texas.

Experience:25+ years
Reviews:35 client reviews
500 N. Akard Street, Suite 3800, Dallas, TX 75201

Practice Areas:

Real Estate FinanceCommercial Real EstateReal Estate DevelopmentConstruction Law
3

W. Scott Gunter

The Gunter Firm

★★★★☆
4.9/5

Scott Gunter leads The Gunter Firm, which serves clients throughout Collin County including Richardson. His practice focuses on both residential and commercial real estate transactions, with particular expertise in contract negotiation, title issues, and closing representation. With an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and consistent recognition in Texas Super Lawyers, he has built a strong reputation for client service and practical legal solutions. The firm handles everything from residential purchases to complex commercial developments.

Experience:15+ years
Reviews:67 client reviews
5600 Tennyson Parkway, Suite 255, Plano, TX 75024

Practice Areas:

Residential Real EstateCommercial Real EstateReal Estate TransactionsTitle Issues

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific local zoning or permitting issues in Richardson, TX, should I discuss with a real estate attorney before buying a commercial property?

In Richardson, a real estate attorney can help navigate the city's specific zoning ordinances, particularly in areas like the Telecom Corridor or the planned developments near US-75. They are crucial for reviewing compliance with Richardson's Unified Development Code, which governs land use, signage, parking, and exterior modifications, ensuring your intended business use is permitted and avoiding costly violations.

When is a real estate attorney required for a residential closing in Richardson, Texas, versus when can a title company handle it?

While Texas law does not mandate an attorney for closings, hiring a Richardson-based real estate attorney is highly advisable for complex transactions, such as those involving title disputes, unique easements, new construction contracts, or probate sales. A local attorney provides an extra layer of protection by conducting due diligence specific to Dallas County and Richardson's municipal requirements that a title company may not address.

How can a Richardson real estate attorney assist with resolving boundary disputes or encroachment issues common in older neighborhoods?

Richardson has many established neighborhoods where fence lines or structures may not align with platted surveys. A local attorney can review historical surveys, city plat records, and negotiate with neighbors or homeowner associations. They can also initiate legal actions, such as quiet title suits or requests for injunctions, in the Dallas County courts to formally resolve the dispute and clear your title.

What should I look for in a real estate attorney's experience with Richardson's Homeowner Association (HOA) covenants and restrictions?

Look for an attorney with specific experience reviewing and disputing HOA governing documents (CC&Rs) for Richardson's numerous managed communities. They should understand Texas Property Code Chapter 209, which governs HOAs, and have experience representing clients in disputes over architectural control committee denials, assessment fees, or enforcement actions unique to the Richardson area.

Are there unique contract contingencies a real estate attorney in Richardson, TX, might recommend due to local factors?

Yes. A Richardson attorney may recommend adding contingencies related to foundation and plumbing inspections due to the area's expansive clay soil, which can cause shifting. They might also advise on specific due diligence periods for reviewing flood zone maps (especially near creeks like Cottonwood Branch), obtaining City of Richardson certificates of occupancy for renovations, or verifying no outstanding municipal liens on the property.

Local Real Estate Insights

Finding the Right Realtor Attorney in Richardson, TX: Your Guide to Local Legal Expertise

When you're navigating a real estate transaction in Richardson, Texas, the search for a "realtor attorney near me" is about more than just proximity. It's about finding a legal professional who understands the unique landscape of our city, from the historic neighborhoods in the Heights to the new developments near the Telecom Corridor. A local real estate attorney does more than review contracts; they provide a crucial layer of protection tailored to Richardson's specific market dynamics.

Why is local expertise so vital? Richardson's real estate market has its own rhythm and regulations. For instance, transactions involving homes in the Canyon Creek neighborhood, which has a strict homeowner's association (HOA), require an attorney familiar with those specific covenants. Similarly, purchasing a property near the future DART Silver Line expansion requires insight into how future development and easements might affect your investment. A generic online legal service won't offer this nuanced, location-specific guidance.

Common situations where Richardson residents benefit from a local realtor attorney include complex new construction contracts in master-planned communities, resolving title issues on older homes in the historic district, and navigating the specific disclosure requirements for Texas sellers. Perhaps you're a first-time buyer in the Galatyn Park area unsure about inspection contingencies, or a seller in Breckinridge Park dealing with a buyer's request for repairs after a North Texas hailstorm. A local attorney can advise on standard practices for our area and potential pitfalls.

Your practical search should start with the Richardson Bar Association and the Real Estate, Probate, and Trust Law Section of the State Bar of Texas. Look for attorneys whose practices are physically located in or frequently serve Richardson and North Dallas County. When you call, ask direct questions: "How many residential real estate closings do you handle in Richardson annually?" "Can you provide an example of a local title issue you recently resolved?" This ensures they have active, current experience in our market.

Before your consultation, gather all relevant documents: the contract, any amendment forms, the title commitment, and communications with the other party or agents. Be prepared to discuss your specific concerns, whether it's an unclear property line in an older neighborhood or clauses in a condo agreement at CityLine. The right attorney will explain Texas law in the context of your Richardson property, helping you make informed decisions to protect your largest investment. Taking the time to find specialized local counsel is not an extra step—it's an essential part of a secure real estate journey in our community.

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