When Do I Need A Santa Clarita Real Estate Lawyer?

Considering a new lease? Buying or selling a home? Own rental properties? Then it’s time to talk to a Santa Clarita real estate lawyer. 

A Santa Clarita real estate lawyer isn’t just helpful in complicated legal matters, settling a property dispute, or administering an estate. 

A licensed real estate attorney can help with anything and everything that’s related to your rental home or owned properties – from making sure your lease is in compliance with the law to ensuring any contract you sign represents your best interests. 

But when is it time to pick up the phone and call your Santa Clarita real estate attorney for help? Let’s find out.

When Signing A Contract

“The most common thing I tell people about real estate law is: It’s always a good idea to check with an attorney if you have a question – because that’s always safer than making a mistake with a legally binding contract,” explained Steffanie Stelnick, president and CEO for The Law Offices of Steffanie Stelnick and an award-winning litigator.

“What many people don’t realize is that, in California, you’re expected to understand and be responsible for the terms of any contract you enter into, even if those details feel buried in tiny print on a page you didn’t read.”

For that reason alone, it’s much smarter to consult with an attorney before signing any contracts, including a lease on a rental property. 

“There could be terms with respect to your move-in or move-out date, or there could be obligations you aren’t aware of,” Steffanie explained. “There might be terms that could end up costing you a lot of money – especially if you don’t understand them.”

When Buying/Selling Property

Your real estate agent will have your best interests in mind, but the sale of a property is one of the biggest transactions you’ll ever be a part of – so it makes sense to have an attorney review any and all paperwork. 

A real estate attorney also can help you save a ton of hassle on the front end of your transaction. For example, they can check the preliminary title report to make sure you won’t have any problems assuming legal ownership of a property you’re planning to purchase, or they can review your terms and paperwork for the escrow process, to ensure a smooth and seamless transition of your property. 

“You can’t put a value on the peace of mind that a real estate attorney can give you,” Steffanie explained. “I’ve seen it happen time and time again – if there’s an unusual aspect in your purchase contract, not catching it can cost you thousands.”

When You Own A Rental Property

With residential real estate in such high demand in Santa Clarita and throughout California, it’s a great time to own rental properties. However, managing rental properties also requires strong legal support, in case any complications or complicated questions arise. 

That’s where the Law Offices of Steffanie Stelnick can help. Our firm not only has the necessary resources to help navigate all your questions about property management, but we also have the knowledge and connections that come with Southern California Real Estate Management, Inc. (SCREM) and JSL Realty, two sister companies located in the Santa Clarita Valley. 

“Landlord-tenant conflicts frequently arise because there may be competing interests involved,” Steffanie explained. “But we understand the nuances of landlord-tenant law in California and will fight hard to protect your rights in any disputes arising from an interest in real property.”

How We Can Help

Whether you’re signing a legally binding contract, considering a real estate transaction, or managing rental properties, getting the opinion of a Santa Clarita real estate attorney is crucial if you want to save yourself time, hassle and money in the future. 

Our attorneys can review your legal paperwork with an expert eye because they’re specifically trained and experienced in real estate law in Santa Clarita and throughout California. 

“It’s best if we can address your questions and concerns before you sign a contract, enter a transaction or run into a problem with your tenants,” Steffanie explained. “That way, we can help ensure a smooth process and a happy outcome for everyone involved.”

About The Law Offices of Steffanie Stelnick 

The Law Offices of Steffanie Stelnick is a full-service civil litigation law firm in California that focuses on real estate law, with cases in estate planning, probate, landlord and tenant disputes and contract disputes. As your Santa Clarita real estate lawyer, Mrs. Steffanie Stelnick represents builders, small and large property management companies, investors, brokers and all types of real property owners. In 2020, she was recognized by the American Institute of Trial Lawyers as Litigator of the Year. Mrs. Stelnick believes all landlords and tenants should know their rights, and when it comes to representation, experience matters. The Law Offices of Steffanie Stelnick has handled thousands of real estate cases with a strong, aggressive approach that ensures all clients operate on an even playing field in a litigation environment. Founded in the Santa Clarita Valley, this premiere real estate law firm has offices throughout the state of California, including Encino, San Francisco and Sacramento.