Questions to ask when Interviewing an attorney?

Question

What are some questions you ask when typically interviewing an attorney, or what are some things that you look for?
            
            Is it reasonable to ask what their fees are?
            
            Any other input is greatly appreciated
            
            Thanks!
            Fred

Charles Whitaker · Answer

Fred,

IMHO,

1. Yes, have a contract at all times.
2. If the private investor is seasoned, they will have a contract.
3. A good title agent can show you what's needed to draw it up yourself. Be very nice to this title agent, they are definitely worth their weight in gold. Way cheaper than $700

Jason Hanson · Answer

I would ask the attorney the following:

1. How many properties they currently own
2. Are they familiar with subject-to and contract for deed transactions
3. Will they get back to you within a reasonable time frame 24-48 hours.

The best thing to do is get referrals from others.

You will want to have your attorney create a contract for you.

Fred Shandler · Answer

Alright, just spoke to an "investor friendly attorney".  She told me to contact her when I have a house that I'm ready to purchase, even though I'm not using a relator.  Reason being, they need to draw up a contract specific to the property I'm purchasing.  I tried to explain that I need a contract on hand -they don't do that.  
                                                                                    
                                                            So my questions now are:
                                                                                    
                                                            Don't I need a purchase contract in hand at all times so that when I have a deal I can lock it up immediately?
                                                            
                                                            Don't I also need a contract in hand for my private investor, so that I can have all financing in place?
                                                            
                                                            Also, their closing fee (when handling the purchase contract) is $700.  Is this reasonable?

Will Barnard · Answer

There are many different aspects/varieties to REI, and you need an attonrey familiar with what you are doing. Ask what there experience is, ask for references, and ask the costs/fees.
I also highly recommend that you use a RE attorney in the state in which you are investing as many states have many different laws and it is practically impossible for an attorney in one state to keep up with every state's laws and changes.

Joshua Dorkin · Answer

It is completely reasonable to ask an attorney what their costs are.  You should absolutely do that before hiring.

Michael Rossi · Answer

I would ask other SUCCESSFUL investors in your area who they use as their real estate attorney.  If you want to interview them, then I would certainly ask about their experience in the field you need (evictions, etc) and I would certainly ask about the cost.

Good Luck,

Mike