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Prep Step 4
Find a Closing Attorney
Engage an attorney early—they can review your offer at no extra cost
Massachusetts is one of the few states where attorneys are required at real estate closings. Your closing attorney protects your interests, reviews the Purchase and Sale Agreement, performs the title search, and conducts the closing.
Why Find One Before Making an Offer?
Most real estate attorneys will review your Offer to Purchase at no additional cost as part of their services. Having an attorney in place before you make an offer sets you apart from other buyers and ensures your legally binding offer is reviewed by a professional before you sign.
What Your Attorney Does
Before Closing
- •Reviews and negotiates the Purchase & Sale Agreement
- •Performs comprehensive title search
- •Orders and explains title insurance
- •Coordinates with lender on closing documents
- •Reviews condo documents if applicable
At Closing
- •Conducts the closing ceremony
- •Explains all documents you're signing
- •Handles fund disbursement
- •Records the deed at Registry of Deeds
- •Provides final title insurance policy
Questions to Ask Potential Attorneys
- 1.How many residential closings do you handle per month?
- 2.What is your fee structure? (Flat fee vs. hourly)
- 3.Will you personally handle my closing or will it be a paralegal?
- 4.How do you handle communication—email, phone, portal?
- 5.What's your availability for the proposed closing date?
- 6.Do you have experience with my type of property (condo, multi-family, etc.)?
- 7.What does your fee include? Title search? Title insurance?
- 8.How quickly do you typically turn around P&S reviews?
Understanding Attorney Fees
Attorney fees in Massachusetts typically range from $800 to $1,500 for a straightforward purchase. Here's what you might expect to pay:
| Service | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Attorney's Fee (Closing) | $800 - $1,500 |
| P&S Review/Drafting | Often included |
| Title Search | $200 - $400 |
| Title Insurance (Owner's) | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Title Insurance (Lender's) | Required by lender |
| Recording Fees | $200 - $500 |
Where to Find Attorneys
- • Ask your real estate agent for recommendations
- • Get referrals from friends who recently purchased
- • Massachusetts Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
- • Online reviews (Google, Avvo, Yelp)
Your agent likely works with several attorneys regularly and can suggest ones who are responsive and experienced with your type of transaction.
Choose Your Own Attorney
While the seller's attorney can technically represent both parties in Massachusetts (called "dual representation"), this is not recommended. Your attorney should represent only your interests. The fee difference is minimal, and the peace of mind is worth it.
Ready to find an attorney? Browse our directory of experienced Massachusetts real estate closing lawyers.
Browse Massachusetts Real Estate Attorneys →