Real Estate Attorney Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, the need for skilled real estate attorneys has never been more pronounced.

As property development and transactions advance, the demand for proficient professionals who can navigate, refine, and protect our real estate legal structures continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a real estate attorney?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager formulating the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply interested in the intricate aspects of real estate law,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable real estate attorney job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Real Estate Attorney Duties and Responsibilities

Real Estate Attorneys specialize in legal matters related to property, from transactions to handling disputes between parties.

They are knowledgeable about real estate law, property rights, and any regulations that affect real estate properties.

Real Estate Attorneys are primarily responsible for providing legal advice to clients, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Reviewing and preparing real estate purchase agreements
• Ensuring that all transactions comply with federal and state laws
• Conducting thorough real estate research and due diligence
• Handling real estate closings and assisting in negotiations
• Examining and verifying legal descriptions of properties and land boundaries
• Resolving property and boundary disputes, and other related legal issues
• Representing clients in court in case of real estate disputes
• Advising clients on their legal rights and obligations regarding real estate transactions
• Creating legal documents, including leases, contracts, deeds, and trust agreements
• Working closely with other attorneys, real estate agents, and clients during transactions

 

Real Estate Attorney Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a detail-oriented Real Estate Attorney to assist with legal matters related to our real estate operations.

The responsibilities include drafting legal documents, handling purchase agreements, mortgage foreclosures, and managing lease negotiations.

The ideal candidate should demonstrate excellent negotiation skills, have a thorough understanding of property law, and be familiar with the legal complexities of real estate transactions.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice related to property and real estate dealings
• Review, draft, and negotiate real estate contracts and lease agreements
• Conduct thorough title searches, and rectify title defects
• Represent the company in court in case of any legal disputes involving property
• Ensure compliance with real estate laws and regulations
• Collaborate with stakeholders and handle property related legal issues
• Assist with foreclosure procedures
• Provide legal support for environmental issues and land use
• Coordinate with real estate agents and brokers to finalize transactions

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Real Estate Attorney
• Knowledge of real estate laws and procedures
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills
• Ability to handle large volumes of work and multi-tasking
• Familiarity with title insurance and tax laws
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal research software
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
• State Bar admission

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Life insurance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Real Estate Attorney
• Work Environment: Office setting. May require travel for property inspections, court appearances and meetings with clients.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Legal Department.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $150,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, cover letter, and a copy of your State Bar admission to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Real Estate Attorney Do?

A Real Estate Attorney is a legal professional who specializes in legal matters related to property, from everyday transactions to disputes between parties.

They assist clients in understanding contracts and other legal documents related to their real estate transactions.

They also ensure that the property rights of their clients are protected.

A large part of their job involves drafting documents, such as rental agreements, transfer documents and contracts for purchasing or selling property.

They may also review or prepare deeds and leases.

Real Estate Attorneys often work with other attorneys, brokers, and investors.

They also work closely with city and county officials, and are often present at closings to ensure that transfer of property is legal and in the client’s best interest.

If a dispute arises, Real Estate Attorneys may represent their client in court.

They may argue cases that involve zoning, property development, foreclosures, or disputes with neighbors.

In addition, they may advise their clients on the tax implications of their property transactions, environmental regulations, or property management.

 

Real Estate Attorney Qualifications and Skills

A proficient real estate attorney should possess the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Knowledge of real estate laws and regulations to provide sound legal advice and counsel to clients
• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills to effectively represent the interests of clients in property disputes and transactions
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with clients and interact effectively with other legal professionals
• Attention to detail in drafting and reviewing legal documents like property agreements, deeds, and leases to ensure they are legally sound and beneficial for the client
• Research skills to investigate legal issues and provide accurate and timely advice
• Problem-solving skills to identify and resolve potential legal issues in real estate transactions
• License to practice law in the relevant jurisdiction, as well as a strong understanding of local real estate market and laws
• Organizational skills for managing multiple cases and clients simultaneously

 

Real Estate Attorney Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for the role of a Real Estate Attorney are typically required to have their Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school, and to have passed their state’s bar examination, thereby being fully licensed to practice law.

They may have gained experience through internships or part-time positions at law firms during their schooling years.

Mid-level candidates may have at least 3 to 5 years of experience practicing law, with a clear focus on real estate matters.

This experience could have been gained through roles such as a Junior Real Estate Attorney or Associate Attorney in a firm specializing in real estate law.

These professionals are typically proficient in handling a wide range of real estate legal matters including sales, acquisitions, leasing, financing, and development.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are often considered senior-level, and are expected to have extensive knowledge and experience in real estate law.

These individuals may have experience in supervisory or managerial roles, and are typically skilled in leading negotiations, developing legal strategies, and providing legal consultation to clients.

They may be prepared for higher positions such as Senior Real Estate Attorney or Partner in a law firm.

Additionally, those with a significant number of years in the field may also have additional certifications or specializations, such as a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Real Estate or a certificate in commercial real estate law.

 

Real Estate Attorney Education and Training Requirements

Real Estate Attorneys are required to first obtain a bachelor’s degree, in any field, though courses in economics, government, history, and public speaking can be particularly useful.

Following this, they must attend law school, which typically lasts three years, and earn a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.

During law school, students may choose to focus their studies on property law, contracts, and real estate transactions to prepare themselves for a career as a Real Estate Attorney.

After obtaining their J.D., they must pass the bar examination in their respective state or jurisdiction in order to practice law.

The bar exam tests knowledge of the law in general, as well as specific areas like real estate law.

In addition to these educational requirements, Real Estate Attorneys must have strong negotiation and communication skills, as well as an intricate understanding of real estate transactions and contracts.

Continuing education is also important for Real Estate Attorneys, as they must keep up with the changes in laws and regulations related to real estate.

Some attorneys may also choose to obtain a master’s degree in law (LL.M.) or certification in real estate law to deepen their expertise and improve their job prospects.

 

Real Estate Attorney Salary Expectations

A Real Estate Attorney can expect to earn an average salary of $119,250 (USD) per year.

However, actual earnings can differ based on factors such as experience, specialization within real estate law, the scale of the firm they work for, and the geographical location.

 

Real Estate Attorney Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Real Estate Attorney need?

Real Estate Attorneys should possess excellent negotiation and communication skills, as they often mediate disputes and negotiate agreements between parties.

They should have a comprehensive understanding of real estate laws, contracts, and property management.

The ability to analyze legal documents, conduct thorough research, and present complex legal information in a clear and understandable way is also critical.

 

What type of education does a Real Estate Attorney require?

Real Estate Attorneys require a Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school and must have passed the state bar exam where they intend to practice.

Some attorneys may also choose to earn an additional Master of Laws (LL.M) degree in real estate law.

 

What should you look for in a Real Estate Attorney resume?

A Real Estate Attorney’s resume should display a strong academic background in law, including a Juris Doctorate degree and passing the bar exam in their state of practice.

It should include relevant legal experience, particularly in real estate or property law.

Any additional certifications, such as a Real Estate Specialist Certification, should also be noted.

Finally, look for examples of successful negotiations, research skills, and any significant real estate cases they have handled.

 

What qualities make a good Real Estate Attorney?

A good Real Estate Attorney should have a firm understanding of all aspects of real estate law, including property rights, real estate contracts, zoning laws, and more.

They must be detail-oriented, with strong negotiation skills, excellent communication skills, and the ability to clearly explain complex legal matters to their clients.

They should also display integrity, as they often deal with sensitive and confidential information.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Real Estate Attorney?

Hiring a Real Estate Attorney can be challenging due to the specific skills and educational requirements necessary for the job.

Additionally, finding an attorney who specializes in real estate law and has significant experience in this field can make the process more complex.

To attract the best candidates, you may need to offer competitive compensation, benefits, and a supportive work environment.

 

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap.

Today, we’ve given you an insider’s look into what it truly means to be a real estate attorney.

Surprise, surprise.

It’s not just about preparing and reviewing legal documents.

It’s about shaping the landscape of property transactions, one contract at a time.

Armed with our trusty real estate attorney job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop here?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously crafted job postings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every legal contract is part of a larger property narrative.

Let’s shape that landscape. Together.

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