Real Estate Closing Lawyer in Chicago

Protecting Buyers and Sellers Through Every Transaction

Clear legal guidance for smooth, secure closings

Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make. At the Law Office of Johann Chau, we represent Chicago-area buyers and sellers to ensure every detail of the transaction is handled correctly. From reviewing contracts to addressing title issues, we work to make sure your closing is efficient, legally sound, and stress-free.

What Happens During a Real Estate Closing?

Understanding the process from contract to keys

A real estate closing finalizes the sale of a property and transfers ownership from the seller to the buyer. Having an attorney involved helps prevent costly mistakes and ensures your rights are protected throughout the process.

Key steps in a Chicago-area closing include:

  • Contract review: Ensuring the purchase agreement protects your interests and complies with Illinois law.
  • Title examination: Verifying that the property title is clear of liens or disputes before the sale is finalized.
  • Coordination with lenders: Working with mortgage companies and settlement agents to ensure all financing is in place.
  • Preparing and reviewing documents: Ensuring deeds, disclosures, and settlement statements are accurate and complete.
  • Final closing: Overseeing the signing of documents and the exchange of funds to transfer ownership securely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Real Estate Closings

Helping Chicago buyers and sellers understand the process

  • Why do I need an attorney for a closing in Illinois?

    In Illinois, it’s common practice for both buyers and sellers to have legal representation during a real estate closing. An attorney protects your interests by carefully reviewing the contract, catching potential issues, and ensuring all documents are accurate and enforceable. They also oversee the transfer of funds and title to avoid costly mistakes that might arise after the sale. In Chicago, where older properties and condo transactions can create additional legal complexities, having an attorney provides added security and peace of mind.

  • How long does the closing process take?

    Most Chicago-area real estate closings take between 30 and 60 days from the signed contract to the final closing date. The timeline depends on factors such as securing financing, completing inspections, and resolving any title issues. Our job is to coordinate with lenders, title companies, and the other party’s attorney to keep the process on track. In competitive neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and West Loop, where transactions often move quickly, having an experienced attorney ensures no critical detail is missed under tight deadlines.

  • What are common issues that can delay closing?

    Delays can occur due to unresolved title defects, last-minute inspection issues, or incomplete loan approvals. In Chicago, older homes and historic properties can have unique challenges such as past liens or unclear title histories that need to be resolved before closing. Condo sales may be delayed if association documents are incomplete or require revisions. We work proactively to identify these issues early so they don’t disrupt your transaction at the final stage, saving you time, stress, and unexpected costs.

  • Do you handle condo closings in Chicago?

    Yes. Condo closings require additional steps beyond a single-family home purchase, such as reviewing condo association bylaws, budgets, assessments, and meeting minutes. In neighborhoods like the South Loop, West Loop, and Lakeview, condo transactions are very common, and understanding the association’s rules is essential to a smooth purchase. We ensure you are aware of all financial obligations and community regulations before closing so there are no surprises after you move in.

  • Can you help with investment or multi-family property closings?

    Absolutely. Investment properties and multi-family units involve more complex considerations, including reviewing leases, tenant rights, zoning compliance, and income potential. We represent both buyers and sellers of these properties throughout Chicago and the suburbs to ensure every aspect of the transaction is handled properly. Our guidance helps protect your investment while making sure the sale meets Illinois legal requirements and avoids future disputes with tenants or municipal authorities.