Real estate sales in New York and New Jersey involve contracts, inspections, disclosures, financing requirements, and strict timelines that affect both buyers and sellers. Each step must follow state law and reflect the terms agreed to by the parties. Buyers must confirm the property’s condition and complete all due diligence, and sellers must ensure clear title and accurate disclosures. A well-managed transaction allows everyone involved to move toward closing without unnecessary delays or disputes.
Why Work With Us for Real Estate Sales
At Merlino & Gonzalez, we help buyers and sellers complete real estate sales with confidence by guiding them through each stage of the process.
What sets our firm apart:
- Careful contract review that protects your rights and financial interests
- Support during inspection, title review, and issue resolution
- Coordination with lenders, agents, and title professionals
- Clear explanations about deadlines, contingencies, and closing requirements
- Experience with both residential and mixed-use properties across New York and New Jersey.
We will guide you through every step of your sale or purchase, from contract to closing. Connect with our seasoned real estate attorneys today.
Understanding Real Estate Sales in New York and New Jersey
Although real estate transactions follow the same general structure in both states, many details differ. New York commonly uses an attorney-driven process for contract signing and closing, while New Jersey includes a formal attorney review period after the parties sign the contract. Disclosure rules also vary, and each state requires different documentation to confirm property condition and seller responsibilities.
We walk you through each requirement so you understand what applies to your transaction and how state rules affect timing and preparation.
Key Steps for Buyers in a Real Estate Sale
Once your offer is accepted, you enter the contract and due diligence phase. Buyers should expect to review, confirm, and evaluate many parts of the transaction before closing.
Important steps include:
- Reviewing the contract and understanding all conditions
- Completing property inspections
- Securing a mortgage commitment
- Ordering a title search to confirm ownership and uncover liens
- Understanding common fees and lender requirements
We explain each document in plain language so you know what you are signing and why it matters. Our team also follows up with agents, lenders, and inspectors to help the process stay on track.
Key Steps for Sellers in a Real Estate Sale
Sellers must prepare the contract of sale, provide complete and accurate disclosures, and address issues uncovered during the inspection or title review. Clearing any title concerns early helps prevent preventable delays at closing.
We assist sellers with:
- Drafting and reviewing contract terms
- Responding to inspection requests
- Coordinating the payoff of existing mortgages and liens
- Preparing for closing documents and timing
- Communicating with the buyer’s attorney and lender
Our goal is to help you complete your sale smoothly while protecting the terms you agreed to at the start of the transaction.
Contract Review and Negotiation Support
Your contract of sale sets the legal and financial structure for the entire transaction. We review every clause carefully to confirm it matches your understanding, protects your interests, and reflects a realistic timeline. When adjustments are needed, we work with the other party’s attorney to revise terms and avoid confusion later.
Common areas we review include:
- Closing dates and required deadlines
- Financing contingencies
- Inspection provisions
- Included fixtures and appliances
- Rights and responsibilities if issues arise
You will know what each term means and how it affects the rest of the transaction.
Inspections, Appraisals, and Due Diligence for Buyers
Inspections help uncover concerns with the property’s structure, systems, or condition. Buyers may also review zoning, standard charges, or building financials for condos and co-ops. If issues arise, we guide you through repair or credit requests and ensure your rights under the contract are protected.
Appraisals confirm value for the lender, and low valuations can affect financing. We help you understand your options if that occurs, so you can decide how to move forward.
Title Searches, Liens, and Insurance Requirements
A title search verifies that the seller legally owns the property and can transfer it free of liens or claims. Common issues include unpaid taxes, judgments, or old mortgages that were never discharged. Title insurance protects both the buyer and the lender if a hidden issue appears later. We work closely with title professionals to resolve concerns efficiently and prepare all required documents before closing.
Closing Logistics: What Buyers and Sellers Should Expect
As closing approaches, both parties confirm final numbers, complete required signatures, and prepare for the transfer of funds. Buyers complete a final walk-through of the property, and sellers provide keys and any final documents needed to transfer ownership.
New York and New Jersey each follow different customs for closing day. We explain what to expect so you feel prepared and confident during the final steps.
How We Support Buyers and Sellers Throughout the Process
At Merlino & Gonzalez, we provide support from the moment you sign the contract until you complete the closing. We answer your questions, coordinate with all involved professionals, and address issues before they become obstacles. Our goal is to make sure your real estate sale is handled with clarity and care.
Contact us today to discuss your upcoming sale or purchase and learn how we can help you close the deal.
Common Questions About Real Estate Sales
What happens during the attorney review period in New Jersey?
The attorney review period allows both parties’ attorneys to review and revise the contract before it becomes binding. Either party may cancel during this time.
How long does a typical real estate sale take?
Most transactions take between thirty and sixty days, although inspections, lender requirements, or title issues can extend that timeline.
What inspections do buyers usually complete?
Buyers often order structural, electrical, plumbing, and pest inspections. Condos and co-ops may require review of building financials and bylaws.
How can sellers prepare for a smooth sale?
Sellers can organize records, confirm any outstanding permits, make straightforward minor repairs, and respond quickly to requests from buyers and professionals involved in the process.