To become a real estate attorney, you must first obtain a real estate license. Every state has different licensing requirements, and you can find them on the real estate commission’s website. Kaplan Real Estate Education has a resource called Steps to Licensing that details each state’s requirements. You can also find licensing programs offered by realty firms, technical schools, and universities. Many offer home-study opportunities as well.
A degree in law is required to become a real estate attorney. However, you can earn an M.L.M. degree to specialize in real estate law. Once you are licensed, you may need to complete additional continuing education courses. You may also choose to join an association that deals with real estate law, such as the American Bar Association’s Real Property, Trust, and Estate Law division. Membership in professional organizations will improve your skills and open up new job opportunities.
An attorney’s fees vary depending on the type of work you’ll be performing. Some require a retainer fee, which can be several thousand dollars. Other attorneys won’t require a retainer, but instead may offer a sliding fee scale or other payment options to compensate the lack of income. As a real estate attorney, you’ll have access to an expert in the field, who will scrutinize a deal for any potential legal, financial, and/or building issues.
Obtaining a real estate license in New York is relatively easy. In fact, a real estate license can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000. You can choose to take live online classes or a pre-licensing education course. Depending on your personal circumstances, you can complete the course in as little as 10 days. And while you are working on acquiring your real estate license, make sure to get a real estate attorney license in your state.
