What First Time Home Buyers Should Know
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with important legal and financial decisions. From historic downtown properties to beachfront retreats, Charleston offers a diverse real estate market that can feel overwhelming for first-time buyers.
The good news? South Carolina law requires an attorney to oversee real estate closings, meaning you’ll have legal guidance throughout the process. At Buxton & Collie, LLC, our experienced real estate attorneys are here to help you through every step, for a smooth and secure home-buying experience.
Understanding the Charleston, SC Real Estate Market
Charleston’s real estate market is competitive, with everything from historic homes in the French Quarter to new developments in Mount Pleasant. Before making an offer, it’s essential to understand local property values, zoning laws, and market trends. Our real estate attorneys can provide insights into neighborhoods, potential restrictions on historic properties, and considerations unique to coastal homes—helping you make an informed decision.
Why You Need a Real Estate Attorney in South Carolina
Unlike in some states, South Carolina law requires a licensed attorney to handle all real estate closings. This means your attorney will:
- Review and explain your purchase contract to ensure you understand your rights and obligations.
- Conduct a title search to verify that the seller has a clear legal right to sell the property and that there are no hidden liens or claims.
- Oversee the closing process, ensuring all legal documents are properly executed and funds are transferred securely.
Having a skilled Charleston, SC real estate attorney protects your investment and prevents costly legal issues down the road.
Key Steps in the Home Buying Process in South Carolina
- Home Inspection & Due Diligence: Before finalizing a purchase, you’ll need to conduct a thorough home inspection to identify any potential issues. From structural concerns to flood risks, due diligence is key to avoiding surprises after closing. Our attorneys can work with your agent to help review inspection reports and negotiate necessary repairs with the seller.
- Financing & Mortgage Considerations: Understanding your loan options—whether it’s a conventional mortgage, FHA loan, or VA loan—is essential for a successful purchase. We work alongside lenders to ensure loan documents are properly structured and that you’re aware of all financing terms before signing.
- The Closing Process: Since attorneys are required for real estate closings in South Carolina, our team will guide you through:
- Final contract review to confirm the terms are in your best interest.
- Title insurance to protect you from future ownership disputes.
- Proper transfer of funds and ownership, helping to ensure everything is legally sound.
- Post-Purchase Legal Support: Even after you’ve closed on your home, legal questions may arise. Whether it’s an HOA dispute, boundary issue, or property tax concern, our real estate attorneys are here to provide ongoing support. We also work with many capable colleagues who can assist in special situations.
Ready to Buy Your First Home? Let’s Talk About What Our Charleston Real Estate Legal Team Can Do for You.
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and having the right legal guidance can make all the difference. At Buxton & Collie, LLC, we want to make your first home-buying experience in Charleston seamless and stress-free. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward owning your dream home.
