Real estate closings are a crucial part of the property investing process. Closing day is the day when ownership of the property transfers from the seller to the buyer.

Having access to an experienced real estate attorney can ensure that closings go smoothly and the legal interests of real estate investors are protected. The factors that influence what needs to be taken into consideration during a real estate transaction depend largely on the intentions of the investor who is buying the property. For example, it is worth exploring the significant differences between real estate closings for fix and flip properties and rental properties.

Real estate closings for fix and flip properties and rental properties have some differences that real estate investors should be aware of. Fix and flip properties typically involve shorter time frames, simpler financing, and fewer contingencies than rental properties. Rental properties, on the other hand, typically involve longer time frames, more complex financing, and more contingencies than fix and flip properties.

Fix and Flip Properties

Fix and flip properties are properties that investors purchase with the intention of renovating them quickly and selling them for a profit. Real estate closings for fix and flip properties typically involve a shorter time frame and fewer contingencies than closings for rental properties.

One of the main differences is the financing involved. Fix and flip properties are typically purchased with short-term financing, such as a fix and flip loan, which has a shorter term and higher interest rates than a traditional mortgage. This means that the closing process for fix and flip properties may be faster and less complex than that for rental properties.

Another difference is the inspection process. Fix and flip properties are typically purchased “as-is” by real estate investors, meaning that the seller is not responsible for making any repairs. Investors usually perform their own inspections and make their own renovation plans, which can be a more straightforward process than the detailed inspections required for rental properties.

Although these properties are sold “as is,” any real estate agents and sellers involved are required to be compliant with Florida Statutes 475. This includes requirements to act in good faith and disclose honestly and fairly when describing properties or showing them for sale.

Rental Properties For Real Estate Investors

Rental properties are properties that investors purchase with the intention of renting them out to tenants. Real estate closings for rental properties are typically more complex and involve more contingencies than those for fix and flip properties.

One of the main differences is the financing involved. Rental properties are typically purchased with long-term financing, such as a traditional mortgage, which has a longer term and lower interest rates than a fix and flip loan. This means that the closing process for rental properties may take longer and involve more documentation than that for fix and flip properties.

“Fix and flip properties typically involve shorter time frames, simpler financing, and fewer contingencies than rental properties.”

Another difference is the inspection process. Rental properties are typically subject to more stringent inspections than fix and flip properties. These inspections may include a home inspection, pest inspection, lead paint inspection, and radon inspection. Investors must address any issues that arise during these inspections before closing.

In addition, rental properties often require more legal documentation than fix and flip properties. For example, investors must draft a lease agreement that outlines the terms of the rental agreement between the landlord and tenant.

The Importance of an Attorney

Retaining a real estate attorney can provide a property investor with legal expertise, contract review, title review, due diligence, and dispute resolution. By working with a real estate attorney, property investors can protect their legal interests and make informed decisions about their investments.

The key is to find a real estate attorney that is experienced in working with property investors and who is licensed in the state where the property is located.

South Florida Law

South Florida Law is a full-service real estate closing law firm that can support both residential and commercial closings. In addition to being a closing attorney, South Florida law is also a title insurance agency. This makes South Florida Law a one-stop shop for all of your real estate transaction needs.

South Florida Law, specializes in conducting title searches on the part of buyers and lenders to ensure the smoothest transaction possible. We also have extensive experience working with property investors throughout the state of Florida.

Our attorneys have years of experience in handling real estate closing-related matters to facilitate successful real estate transactions. Having our attorneys at your side in a residential or commercial property transaction gives you the advantage of proactive legal protection.

If you are looking for a real estate closing attorney or a title insurance agency, call us today at (954) 900-8885 or reach out to us via our contact form.