We had to hire a lawyer and its under negotiations with lawyers.

Would it shock you that one of these clubs is now run by a disbarred lawyer?

You do not even need to hire a lawyer. 

I already have a preferred real estate lawyer. 

Hi Melissa,Thank you for the very practical advice and your insights.We have hosted providers, lawyers, grad students, nurses and one diplomat who stays in one of our 3 bedroom has the embassy paying for the house and she has renewed the past 3 years.I can see the bigger homes for corporate housing except for the one bedroom, one bath condo downtown near the hospital.i really appreciate you insights!

Separately I have a non paying tenant I am evicting which will cost me c10 months rent but that is another story and buyer beware in dealing with NYC tenancy and housing laws - advice is hire a lawyer from day one of nonpayment.Two questions for the forum:1.

etc... are there professionals who specialize in this sort of deal, talking to the bank, etc... a realtor or lawyer or someone with the right connections to the bank? 

Here's how you can find good deals on properties that might need some work or are priced lower than usual:Connect with People - Make friends with real estate agents, lawyers, and others who know about properties that need to be sold quickly or aren't in great shape.Reach Out Directly - Send letters or use websites to contact property owners who might want to sell fast.Look Around - Drive or walk around neighborhoods to find houses that look like they need fixing up.

Am I potentially missing out on a stellar lawyer because I think paying that much for an initial call is unreasonable?

So you want to start searching asap once you get your property under contract to sell if not even earlier.And of course you want to work with a lawyer as there's plenty of paperwork and you don't want to miss the dots on any I's or crosses on any T's.