Real Estate Attorney in Newark, NJ

Handling Commercial & Residential Real Estate Matters

Ehrlich, Petriello, Gudin, Plaza & Reed, Attorneys at Law handles real estate transactions and complex commercial transactions in New Jersey. We have an extensive background in tax, business, and commercial litigation. As dedicated business lawyers, we guide clients through all aspects of their commercial needs, including business formation that may involve identifying the right real estate property.

Our attorneys stay current with changes in New Jersey real estate law, providing counsel that reflects the latest regulations and local trends. We manage transactions across a range of property types, from downtown Newark commercial sites to Essex County neighborhoods. We regularly address requirements such as Newark’s land use applications and Essex County’s property tax assessments, ensuring that clients move forward confidently with every local requirement met.

Our clients in the past have included:

• Real estate developers
• Multi-family developers
• Multi-family property owners
• Condominium associations
• Cooperative corporations
• Home buyers and sellers
• Property managers
• Builders
• Landlords
• Financial institutions
• Government agencies

When you need a dependable real estate lawyer in Newark to handle your property matters, Ehrlich, Petriello, Gudin, Plaza & Reed, Attorneys at Law is the law firm to trust.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Buy a House in NJ?

The state of New Jersey does not require an attorney for closing on a house or commercial property. However, most buyers and sellers choose to have a real estate attorney in New Jersey represent them for added protection during these transactions. An attorney familiar with the state’s property laws helps safeguard your interests and navigate issues that may arise in a real estate transaction. Hiring a real estate lawyer in New Jersey can also help if you need support with non-transactional issues, such as landlord-tenant disputes or tax planning.

New Jersey’s residential purchase process includes a mandatory three-day attorney review period for contract sales. During these three business days, both parties can consult an attorney to revise contract terms or cancel the agreement without penalty. Local ordinances in cities such as Newark may require extra steps during the purchase, including smoke detector inspections and certificates of occupancy before closing. We advise clients on these requirements early in the process to keep transactions on track and ensure compliance with municipal and county codes.

Real Estate Legal Issues We Handle

Our attorneys help clients address many property issues, including resolving title disputes and managing easement agreements in neighborhoods across New Jersey. Regional planning boards in Newark, such as the Central Planning Board, as well as Essex County’s Division of Planning, play a central role in approvals for local development projects. We assist clients with site plan approvals, zoning compliance, and other regulatory steps necessary for a successful real estate transaction. Many clients benefit from our understanding of local permit timelines, which can affect construction schedules and financing decisions in Essex and Hudson counties.

We also have extensive experience handling real estate litigation matters such as residential housing issues, home improvement disputes, and housing code violations. We apply our knowledge of construction law when assisting clients with construction and architect contracts or construction liens. Our Newark tax law attorneys also provide support in real estate tax appeals and tax foreclosure cases.

Understanding the Closing Process in New Jersey Real Estate Transactions

In New Jersey, buying or selling real estate involves a sequence of crucial steps specific to the state's legal system. Most contracts start with an attorney review period, typically three business days, during which attorneys can review and amend contract terms. Afterward, parties proceed with title searches, property inspections, and negotiations about necessary repairs or credits. State law requires escrow deposits for buyers, held under regulated procedures. Cities like Newark often mandate property certifications before closing, such as ensuring smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are present. Buyers usually complete a final walk-through just before closing to confirm the property meets the agreement. After the transaction, the county clerk records the deed, finalizing the transfer of ownership. Working with a real estate attorney in New Jersey helps prevent transaction delays and improves compliance with local requirements unique to each municipality.

Key Laws & Regulatory Considerations for Newark and New Jersey

New Jersey real estate law combines state rules with local codes that affect every stage of a transaction. Both residential and commercial properties must comply with zoning regulations set by Newark’s Department of Economic & Housing Development. State and local codes also shape landlord-tenant relationships, affordable housing obligations, and what sellers must disclose to buyers. Some transactions require environmental or historic risk disclosures, which can limit the future use of properties in Essex County. Local governments may impose transfer taxes or require certificates of occupancy before authorizing occupancy by new owners. A qualified real estate attorney in Newark at Ehrlich, Petriello, Gudin, Plaza & Reed, Attorneys at Law keep pace with regulatory changes and participate in industry groups to stay informed about new property laws in New Jersey. This local knowledge helps clients navigate legal requirements that can differ from one neighborhood to another.