A happy path from offer to keys
Start Confident, Finish Confident
Buying a house should feel exciting, not confusing. As your real estate lawyer for buyers, we review your purchase agreement early, explain deadlines, and coordinate with your agent and lender so the process stays on schedule. Many clients find us by searching for a real estate lawyer for buyers in the greater Chicagoland area, especially across Will, DuPage, Kane, and Cook Counties, and they appreciate having one steady point of contact from attorney review to closing day.
Before You Sign, Or Right After
If possible, loop us in before you sign, especially for FSBO or builder contracts. We help you shape an offer that matches your goals, including contingencies and timelines that fit your move. Once the contract is signed, we enter attorney review, clarify ambiguous language, and request changes tied to inspection results, financing, or possession.
Protecting Buyers During The Transaction
Each step matters — from inspections to closing. We guide you through every stage so your purchase stays on track and surprises are minimized.
Inspections, Credits & Financing
We negotiate inspection requests, handle repair credits, and communicate with lenders to keep financing and appraisal on schedule. If an appraisal comes in low, we help strategize adjustments or extensions.
Title & Survey Review
We examine the title commitment and survey for easements, encroachments, or other red flags. Our goal: ensure your ownership is clean and your property boundaries are clear before closing.
Condo & HOA Documents
We confirm condo and HOA disclosures so your monthly costs are transparent and predictable — whether you're buying in Plainfield, Joliet, or Evanston.
What Closing Day Looks Like
On closing day you will sign mortgage and title documents, receive final figures, and pick up the keys. We confirm that credits and prorations are correct, taxes are handled, and any repairs or agreed items are satisfied. Closings may occur at a local title office in Will County, DuPage County, Kane County, Cook County, or downtown Chicago depending on the parties and the property. We make sure you know what to bring and what to expect.
After Closing Support
Questions come up after you move in. We confirm recording, explain tax exemptions, and answer follow-ups about association matters or warranties. Many clients return to The Law Offices of Jeffrey Sell to create a will or trust once they settle into their new home.
Answers For Illinois Homebuyers
Do I really need an attorney to buy a house in Illinois
While not legally required, using an attorney is common here because contracts include an attorney review period. Legal guidance helps you spot issues early and keep your purchase on track.
How do you help first-time buyers
We explain each step in plain language, from contract terms to title insurance. We make sure deadlines make sense and that you understand costs before closing day.
What if the inspection finds serious problems
We negotiate for repairs or credits that fit the scope of the issue. If the problem is a deal-breaker and your contingency allows it, we help you cancel and recover earnest money.
What closing costs should I expect
Buyers usually see lender fees, title charges for the loan policy, recording fees, and prepaid taxes and insurance. We review the draft numbers so there are no surprises.
Can you help with new construction
Yes. Builder contracts often differ from standard forms. We review timelines, warranties, and lien waiver requirements and coordinate with your lender and the builder to avoid delays.
Meet the Team
Our attorneys
New York City, NY
Office
Phone:
45 Rockefeller Plaza, Floor 20
New York, NY 10111
Valencia, Spain
Office
Phone:
Gran Via de Ferran el Católic
Valencia, Spain 46008