Meet William L. Phalen III – Partner with Sherman & Phalen, LLC

Experienced Representation in Residential and Commercial Real Estate Closings

William focuses on residential and commercial real estate closings, with a practice that’s evolved into problem-solving—figuring out how to structure complex transactions and clear title so deals can close. He works with commercial and residential lenders, institutional investors, and clients who buy distressed properties, as well as first time homeowners, estates, auction companies, and even title companies. Many of his transactions involve title challenges: deceased owners, tax sale properties, legal description errors, or something completely new. He appreciates the puzzle of it—working with clients to find solutions to achieve their goals.

Law is William’s second career. After graduating from the University of Georgia with a degree in Finance, he completed his MBA from Georgia State University. His first professional position was as a consultant in the healthcare software industry. Several years of near constant travel made law school look like a great option. And in 2002, William graduated from the Georgia State University College of Law, cum laude.

William’s finance education and consulting experience didn’t go to waste. His background helps him speak the language lenders and investors use and provides an understanding of what’s happening in the market. But what keeps clients coming back is simpler: he answers the phone and gets to know his clients professionally and personally. If he doesn’t know something, he freely admits it, and will work to either figure it out or point his clients to someone who can help. Because of this personal touch, a lot of client relationships have turned into friendships.

Experience

• William represents credit unions, banks, mortgage companies, hard money lenders, commercial lenders, individuals, businesses, and institutional investors in the acquisition or refinance of homes, commercial buildings, distressed properties, multi-family apartments, land, and everything in between
• Performed thousands (literally) of title searches throughout Georgia, and reviewed title for thousands of more properties in Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Alabama
• Performed thousands (again, literally) of residential and commercial real estate closings throughout the Southeast from boardrooms to the back of a pickup truck in the rain (true story)
• Drafted and advised clients on purchase and sale agreements for residential, commercial, and land transactions, including for-sale-by-owner transactions, for both first-time homeowners and seasoned professionals
• Performed title clearance for all types of properties including those acquired through tax sales, auction properties, and estates
• Drafted loan documents for private lenders and institutional clients with varying terms and transaction structures

William likes to spend what free time he has with his wife, three children, and two and a half dogs (the third one is very small). Tinkering in the garage, occasionally playing golf and saltwater fishing, and generally spending time outdoors are among his favorite things. That and a decade long text string with nine of the finest Dawg fans you will ever meet.

Education & Licensure

• University of Georgia, BBA in Finance, 1994
• Georgia State University, MBA with concentration in Finance, 1996
• Georgia State University College of Law, 2002
• Licensed in Georgia

Professional & Community Activities

• Deacon, Chestnut Ridge Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
• Prior board member and president of GRECAA – Georgia Real Estate Closing Attorneys Association
• Prior board member of the Real Property Law Section of the State Bar of Georgia and chair of the legislative committee