In Georgia, the closing attorney is negotiated as part of the Purchase and Sales Agreement. In the standard form used by the Georgia Association of Realtors, paragraph 3 on page 1 of the agreement provides for a blank to make this selection.

Most people are not aware that they can choose the attorney they work with, nor do they understand the vast difference that can exist in the fees that various attorneys charge. For example, the closing attorney will typically issue the title insurance policies for both the lender and the owner.

These fees are negotiable and can vary dramatically from attorney to attorney. In addition, the fees they charge for their services and the various “junk fees” can add up to large differences as well.

Here at Family Mortgage, we have negotiated special fees with our preferred attorney that will most likely save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. Remind your Realtor to consult with you prior to submitting any offer so you do not fall into the trap of going with “just anyone”.