Quick Poll for Realtors

Nyles, being from CA I don't qualify, but your list reminded me that those are the qualities that all us agents should have too!

Hi Nyles,

over my 16+ years of real estate I have been around the block a dozen times with lawyers of all sorts.  I have had some who tried to council the client to shop for other properties, some who have tried to renegotiate the deal, lots who made major mistakes, and countless number of them who tried to renegotiate the transaction that was handed to them.

All I look for now in a lawyer is one who will process the transaction that is provided to them.  No selling of extra stuff, no advising on issues that are outside the scope of the transaction, no hunting for issues they can litigate on, no trying renegotiate the transaction after it has already been signed and delivered, etc.

I encourage all clients to seek legal advice BEFORE signing, but after the fact, all I expect is the processing of the transaction provided in the smoothest and most efficient manner possible.  As a result I find myself not recommending those who I think are the greatest legal minds, but rather those who are the most reliable.

Robert May

"Please feel free to come visit by my blog and leave a comment too, it is how I meet the majority of my new friends here at activerain.  I always try to reply to comments and to return the favor by visiting your blog as well - Robert May"

Nyles, I am SO happy you asked this. In Georgia we must close with attorneys. I have one I stick to because:

1: They know me when I call up and say "Hi, it's Karin", not Karin Elliott.

2: They communicate with prompt friendly replies, No surprises in the end.

3: Jim, the closing attorney is always on time and takes time to answer every question buyers or sellers may have without looking at his watch.

4; Most Important: The closing table is always has a candy jar in the middle. :) Gotta keep everybody happy!

Hi Nyles ~ Karin has a good list. 

Communication is huge, competence is of course a must-have, yes - friendly, professional staff is good (your receptionist is one of the most important people in your office and come to think of it having a receptionist is waaay better than not), and a general sense that we are on the same team. 

I once worked with an attorney who kept referring to "my client" - hold on there - I gave "your" clients your name! - if you have to call them something other than their names "our clients" would work.

An even temper - or lack of a temper for that matter is pretty important too. 

Back to competence - somebody who's sharp, catches things, and who's on top of the transaction is key.

Those are a few quick ones off the top of my head.

Liz