Best & least expensive way to transact an off-market deal?

[Jon Schwartz]

Hi all,

I'm underwriting an off-market MF deal, and I'm trying to find the least expensive way to do the transaction (that's also safe). I've known the seller for ten years and trust him enough not to need independent representation. We don't have brokers involved.

I've heard it's possible to bring in a single broker at this point to act as a "paper pusher" for a small fee, perhaps 1%.

I've also heard that it's must cheaper to hire an RE lawyer to handle the transaction for a flat fee.

What experiences have you had? What do you recommend?

Thanks so much!

Jon