The Benefits of Hiring a Real Estate Attorney for Your Landlord Business

by Michael Safren, Esq.

As a landlord, you likely have a lot on your plate. Managing rental properties, dealing with tenants, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly can be a full-time job. However, one thing that you may not have considered is hiring a real estate attorney to help you with your business. While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, there are many benefits to having a real estate attorney on your team. In this article, we'll explore some of the reasons why hiring a real estate attorney can be a smart move for your landlord business.

Protect Your Interests

When it comes to renting out property, there are many legal issues that can arise. For example, you may have tenants who fail to pay rent, damage your property, or violate the terms of their lease. In these situations, it's important to have an attorney who can protect your interests and help you take appropriate action. A real estate attorney can review your lease agreements, advise you on your legal rights, and represent you in court if necessary.  A real estate attorney can also advise you on the most advantageous business entity for your real estate business and the help you maintain that business entity to protect your personal assets.

Navigate Complex Laws and Regulations

Landlord-tenant laws can be complex and vary from city to city and are always changing. Many places around the country have passed new laws the last few years, particularly in the Puget Sound area. An experienced real estate attorney who specializes in landlord-tenant law can help you navigate these laws and regulations, ensuring that you are in compliance with all applicable rules, especially as the laws keep changing. For example, your attorney can advise you on how to handle security deposits, how to evict a tenant legally, and how to avoid discrimination claims.

Draft Solid Contracts

Having a solid lease agreement is essential to protecting your interests as a landlord. A real estate attorney can help you draft a lease agreement that covers all of the necessary terms and protects you from potential legal issues. Additionally, your attorney can review any contracts or agreements that you are asked to sign, ensuring that you are not agreeing to any unfavorable terms.

Minimize Risk

As a landlord, you are exposed to a certain amount of risk. However, a real estate attorney can help you minimize that risk by providing advice on how to avoid legal disputes and how to protect your assets. Your attorney can also help you identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.

Your Tenants Are Likely Represented by an Experienced Attorney

Washington law enables tenants to gain representation in Landlord/ Tenant matters at no cost to the tenants should the tenants meet income criteria.   Further, certain cities such as Seattle, WA expand the criteria and make it a virtual certainty that your tenants will have access to experienced attorneys to advocate and represent them.  You would be wise to hire an attorney to counsel and assist you throughout the process.  This will save you time, money, and effort.  

Save Time and Money

While it may seem like an added expense to hire a real estate attorney, it can actually save you time and money in the long run. By having an attorney on your team, you can avoid legal issues that could result in costly litigation. Additionally, your attorney can handle legal matters on your behalf, freeing up your time to focus on other aspects of your business.

Hiring an experienced real estate attorney for your landlord business can provide numerous benefits. From protecting your interests and navigating complex laws to minimizing risk and saving time and money, an attorney can be an invaluable asset to your business.

As experienced real estate attorneys, we are here to offer our assistance and expertise. Whether you need guidance in lease negotiations, eviction procedures, or property acquisitions, we are dedicated to providing you with personalized legal solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Don't let legal complexities hinder the growth of your landlord business. Contact Us today to discuss your requirements and see how we can help you achieve your goals. Together, we can navigate the intricacies of real estate law and ensure that your business thrives while remaining legally compliant.

Michael Safren is a Partner at The Law Offices of Jenny Ling, PLLC.  His practice focuses on probate, business, real estate, and civil litigation.