Fraud Prevention Measures We Use to Protect Your Investment
Real estate closings seem straightforward. You enter a contract, funds are exchanged, and you sign at the closing table. But behind the scenes these transactions are a frequent target for fraud. The threat of fraud is not hypothetical. Every closing attorney has seen attempts involving fake sellers or attempts at misdirecting funds through email. As these schemes become […]
Homestead Exemption Applications Due April 1
If you bought a home in Georgia and it’s your primary residence, there’s an important deadline coming up: April 1. That’s the deadline to apply for a homestead exemption for the current tax year. We sometimes get questions from new homeowners asking whether the homestead exemption was handled as part of the closing—and it was […]
What You Need to Know About FinCEN’s New Real Estate Reporting Rule
FinCEN has implemented a new nationwide reporting rule for certain residential real estate transactions to combat money laundering. While most closings are unaffected, purchases involving entities or trusts and non-traditional financing may require additional reporting before closing.
Why Owner’s Title Insurance Matters—Even When Everything Looks Right
Even a clean title search can’t catch everything. Learn how owner’s title insurance protects Georgia homebuyers from forged deeds, undisclosed heirs, and hidden title defects — and why Sherman & Phalen recommends it at every closing.
Understanding Georgia’s Good Funds Law: What Buyers and Lenders Need to Know
Learn what Georgia’s Good Funds Law means for your real estate closing—and why timing, cleared funds, and wire security are crucial for a smooth transaction.
Buying Property at Auction? 5 Key Questions to Ask Before You Bid
Before bidding on a property at auction, ask these 5 key questions to protect your investment and avoid costly surprises.
Why Choose a Regional Real Estate Closing Law Firm?
Legal guidance is essential for buyers, sellers, and investors to navigate the real estate closing process with greater confidence. Learn more today by discussing your options with a highly experienced regional real estate closing attorney.
First-Time Home Buyer? We Can Help.
Buying your first home? We make the closing process simple, clear, and stress-free—so you can focus on getting the keys.
Considering a For-Sale-by-Owner Transaction?
Going the FSBO route? We’ll help you draft the contract and guide you through a smooth, neutral closing process.
Did You Know . . . About the No Administration Necessary Process?
Think probate is always required to sell? In Georgia, a No Administration Necessary order might do the job—if certain conditions are met.
