Think about what it took to save for your home.
The money you put aside. The purchases you postponed. The extra work. The decisions you made because owning a home mattered to you.
Getting to this stage is a major accomplishment. Protecting that progress deserves your attention, including when you choose your real estate attorney.
It’s easy to focus on the property and leave the legal arrangements until later. But unanswered questions about the agreement, costs or next steps can leave you making important decisions without the information you need.
Before you hire an attorney, make sure you’re comfortable with how they will handle your transaction.
Don’t leave the scope of the work unclear
Ask the attorney to explain the work they will undertake, including reviewing the agreement, investigating title and advising you about issues that arise.
Request a written fee estimate and ask what is included, what may cost extra and when payments are due.
If you’re selling, ask what documents and information you should gather early. Preparation gives your attorney a better starting point and helps you understand your responsibilities.
Don’t overlook communication
You should be able to ask a question and understand how you’ll get an answer.
Before instructing the firm, ask:
- Who will be my main contact?
- How often will I receive an update?
- What do you need from me to get started?
- If something is delayed, how will you explain the next step?
A transaction can take time for legitimate reasons. You still need clear information about what is outstanding, who is handling it and what comes next.
Pay attention to how your initial questions are answered. That conversation can help you decide whether the working relationship suits you.
Don’t confuse speed with sound advice
I appreciate attorneys who actively move matters forward and look for practical, lawful ways to resolve problems.
That includes explaining when a concern needs further investigation. Sometimes protecting your interests means slowing down, requesting more information or reconsidering the transaction.
You want to understand the risks and your options before deciding how to proceed.
Don’t assume your lender accepts every firm
If you’re financing the purchase, check directly with your lender that your chosen firm is acceptable for your particular mortgage transaction.
Ask who will represent whom, whether separate counsel is required and what that means for fees and timing. Get that clarity before committing to the arrangement.
Who I personally recommend
For buyers, my recommendation is Rhchetta R. Godet at Alexiou, Knowles & Co.
For sellers, I recommend Donovan Gibson at Munroe & Associates.
Between them, they have represented more than 30 of our clients. I’ve used both personally, and none of the clients we’ve referred has reported a bad experience to me. That is my experience, and you should still ask questions and choose the attorney who fits your circumstances.
My referred clients receive a discount. Mention my name and have the firm confirm the current discount, which fees qualify and the full estimated cost in writing before you proceed.
You’ve worked hard to get here. Give your choice of legal representation the same care you’ve given your property search.
Contact me if you’d like an introduction.
Attorney contacts
Rhchetta R. Godet
Senior Associate, Alexiou, Knowles & Co.
Email: rgodet@bahamaslaw.com
Telephone: +1 242-322-1126
Professional profile
Donovan Gibson
Senior Member, Munroe & Associates
Email: dlg@munroelawbahamas.com
Telephone: +1 242-394-8888
General information only. Your attorney should advise you on your specific transaction.
