As the only attorney to respond..I think that it is important to discuss the details of the transaction to the attorney prior to retaining her because no two transactions are alike. An experienced attorney will spend 15 minutes with you asking pertinent questions and, based on those answers, give you a fair evaluation of fees and disbursements.

I don't agree that the 'front-end' is the main work of the residential real estate attorney as after contract-signing there are many twists and turns (especially in these crazy times) that require experience and good judgment to keep the transaction on its course to final closing table. Lynne Figman

If we (attorneys) are charging you more than $1,000 and its a standard deal, then go see someone else. Attorneys are there ALWAYS for the front end issues. We make changes in the contract, which, for the most part, are rather obvious. However we can also play a vital role in making sure you're not taken advantage of. By the time you're at the closing table our job is basically done. Having said that, more than anything else, go with someone you think will answer your calls along the way, especially if this is your first purchase. An attorney may be great at handling a contract, but if he doesnt have two minutes to answer the phone and tell you what he did and why its beneficial to you, then you shouldn't be giving him your hard earned cash.

Under the normal circumstance, attorney fee should be about $600 to $1500. There is not much deviation from a standard contract your attorney needs to put on rider other than 1) subject to marketable title 2) vacant and broom clean 3) all appliances in working condition 4) right to inspection in 72 hours prior to closing 5) mortgage clause. I don't see you should pay your attorney higher than suggested fees. Their fee will be more in the case of buying a coop, multi-family or commercial properties. Good Luck.

Living now in southeast FL, formerly a resident and licensed New York State broker, the usual has been 1% of the asking price. Due to the strength of the Bar Association in NY and because a realtor cannot handle contracts in NYS, as a resident you must have an attorney handle your real estate transaction for the most legal protection. What's most important is that you engage him/her at the beginning..don't wait just to ask for their appearance at the closing table...not needed when all you do is sign your name. Without their help from the very beginning, i.e, before you agree to sign a contract to buy, they cannot represent you well on just closing day. If they charged 1.5%, it would be worth every penny!