Purchase and Property Settlement Procedures in Pittsburg

[Shawn Devoid]

Hi Burghers!

I'm exploring Pittsburgh as a possible place to live and invest.  I'm familiar with Vermont (must use a lawyer) and Arizona (almost nobody uses a lawyer) when it comes to settlement services.  I'm wondering how the process works in PA (specifically Pittsburgh area).  I have several sub-questions, as well.

-  Does the Realtor association have standard contracts for use, if you belong to the local association? In other words, agent draws up the purchase contract with no need for attorney approval?

-  As Pittsburgh investors, do you use a lawyer to handle closing or a settlement services company?

-  Do the service settlement companies offer special services to real estate agents (hopefully for free) like preliminary title reports, neighborhood lists, lists of homeowners in potential financial distress?

I really appreciate any information you might be able to share!