Do I Need a Lawyer to Buy or Sell a Home in New York?
Jason Altman

Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial transactions most people will ever make. In New York, unlike in many other states, real estate attorneys play an essential role in every residential transaction. If you're navigating the process on Long Island—or anywhere in Nassau or Suffolk County—having a trusted local attorney can make all the difference.

Why New York Requires an Attorney at Closing

New York is one of a handful of states that requires both buyers and sellers to be represented by attorneys during a real estate closing. This isn’t just a legal formality. Closings in New York are complex, and real estate agents or title companies cannot perform legal work.

A Long Island real estate attorney ensures that contracts are properly negotiated, title issues are resolved, contingencies are met, and your interests are protected every step of the way. Whether you’re buying your first home in Huntington or selling a co-op in Forest Hills, legal guidance is not just helpful—it’s essential.

The Attorney’s Role in a Home Purchase or Sale

Your attorney’s responsibilities will depend on whether you're the buyer or the seller, but in most cases, legal support includes:

  • Contract negotiation and review

  • Title search and clearance

  • Coordination with lenders, title companies, and agents

  • Handling escrow and disbursement of funds

  • Attending and guiding the closing process

An experienced home purchase attorney in New York will catch issues that might delay your closing or cost you thousands after the deal is done.

Local Concerns That Can Affect Your Transaction

Every region has its quirks—and Long Island is no exception. From the Town of Brookhaven’s certificate of occupancy requirements to unrecorded oil tanks in older Nassau neighborhoods, local knowledge matters.

A real estate lawyer familiar with Long Island municipalities will know how to:

  • Check for unpermitted additions or CO issues

  • Handle town-level inspections and fees

  • Navigate co-op board requirements in Queens or Nassau

  • Catch zoning concerns that might restrict future renovations

For Buyers: Protecting Your Investment

Homebuyers, especially first-time buyers, often don’t know what to expect. That’s where a first-time homebuyer attorney adds value—explaining the fine print, flagging risky terms, and ensuring fair deal terms.

Here’s what we help buyers with:

  • Reviewing inspection reports and negotiating repairs or credits

  • Clarifying mortgage contingencies and appraisal clauses

  • Ensuring clear title and no outstanding municipal violations

  • Preparing for closing and breaking down the final documents

For Sellers: Avoiding Post-Sale Problems

Sellers benefit just as much from legal representation. A real estate lawyer for home sellers on Long Island ensures your contract is sound, disclosures are handled properly, and any open issues (like liens or permits) are resolved before the buyer’s title search.

We help sellers:

  • Draft or revise the sale contract

  • Negotiate inspection repair requests

  • Handle mortgage payoff calculations

  • Attend closing to confirm funds and liabilities are resolved

A Quick Look at Common Questions

  • Can I close on a home without an attorney in New York?
    No. NY requires attorney involvement for both parties. Without one, you risk major legal and financial issues.

  • How much does a real estate attorney cost?
    Fees vary depending on the property and services needed. We offer clear, upfront pricing—and you’ll always know what’s included.

  • Do I need a lawyer for a co-op purchase?
    Yes. Co-op deals require review of board minutes, the proprietary lease, and approval documents. We make sure you know exactly what you’re buying into.

Quick Tips Before You Sign Anything

  • Don’t rely solely on your agent to explain contract terms.

  • Always have your own lawyer—not just the “recommended” one from another party.

  • Contact an attorney early—even before you make or accept an offer.

Call Us Before You Sign

Whether you're buying a home in Bay Shore or selling a condo in Garden City, don’t go it alone. At Jason C. Altman P.C., we bring decades of experience in Long Island real estate law and personalized service you can trust. From your first questions to the final signatures, we’re here to protect your investment and help you close with confidence.

Ready to take the next step?
Reach out today for a consultation and let’s talk about how we can help make your next real estate transaction a success.