Complete Assistance On Real Estate And Title Insurance Matters

At the Riddell Law Group, our qualified attorney works diligently to assist individuals and businesses in and around Sarasota with their real estate concerns.

Residential Real Estate Transactions

Residential real estate closings play an important role at the Riddell Law Group. Many real estate brokerages in Sarasota, Manatee and the surrounding counties use our services for their clients, and we actively market those services to the real estate community as a whole, including lenders and related businesses. With the support of experienced closing professionals and state-of-the-art computer systems, we have established and continually refine procedures to effectively manage all real estate transactions, no matter what the size.

The Riddell Law Group provides contract to closing representation that includes:

• Contract negotiations
• Preparation of purchase and sale agreements
• Escrow services
• Preparation of deeds, mortgages and other closing documentation
• Examination of title and issuance of title insurance
• Review of surveys
• Advice regarding land use restrictions and rules that affect ownership and use of property
• Assistance in securing mortgage financing
• Closing services

As authorized agents of major title insurers, including the Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, we are able to insure real estate titles and thereby give our clients lasting protection at the lowest rates allowed by Florida law. We also assist clients with calculating any applicable rates.

Commercial Real Estate Transactions

Commercial real estate transactions can often be complex and involve a variety of parties and issues. The Riddell Law Group team is well-versed in the matters that confront business owners, investors and developers in their commercial real estate transactions. Legal services we provide to these clients include:

• Land acquisition
• Examination of title and issuance of title insurance
• Variances, site plan approvals and plat vacations and amendments
• Governmental development orders, permits, and approvals
• Property sales
• Lease preparation and review
• Financing and refinancing document preparation, counsel and representation

Tax-Deferred 1031 Exchanges

In 1999, Mr. Riddell established U.S. 1031 Exchange Services, Inc., a qualified 1031 exchange intermediary, one of the first in our area. Thanks to Mr. Riddell’s years of exchange experience, U.S. 1031 Exchange Services, Inc., is uniquely positioned to be a provider of efficient, professional intermediary services, and Mr. Riddell is able to provide comprehensive and accurate advice on the latest developments in exchange transactions, including simultaneous and delayed exchanges, reverse and build-to-suit exchanges, and exchanges of personal property.

Financial Institutions

We regularly provide counsel to lenders in committing, documenting, closing and administering loans secured by real estate and related assets. We are experienced in the areas of foreclosures and loan workouts.

Corporations And Business Law

At Riddell Law Group, we regularly handle business purchase and sale transactions. In forming a business venture, we advise clients on the legal effects of operating as a corporation, general or limited partnership, limited liability company or a sole proprietorship. We are skilled in the preparation and implementation of all documentation and procedures necessary for the formation of a new business venture.

Florida Real Estate And Title Insurance FAQs

The answers below focus on the issues that matter most during real estate discussions.

In Florida, what does title insurance protect in a real estate transaction?

Title insurance protects buyers and lenders from financial loss caused by hidden title problems that may not appear before closing. These issues can affect ownership rights long after the transaction is complete, which is why Florida takes title protection seriously.

The following are some common problems title insurance helps cover:

• Unpaid liens from previous owners
• Ownership disputes involving unknown heirs
• Recording mistakes in public records
• Forged signatures or fraudulent transfers

These issues can create major legal and financial trouble after closing. As such, having title insurance helps protect your investment and gives you stronger security in your ownership rights.

Why is an attorney recommended for commercial property transaction deals in Florida?

Commercial transactions involve a high level of risk and numerous parties, making professional oversight a practical necessity. While an attorney’s services are not required by law, the nature of these deals, the detailed contracts and strict regulatory standards make it unwise to proceed without one.

A lawyer’s assistance becomes especially important when dealing with:

• Contracts with long-term financial obligations
• Title defects that affect ownership or future development
• Zoning and permitting problems that delay operations
• Lease obligations tied to existing tenants or businesses

A real estate attorney reviews each part of the process with care. This includes examining contracts, verifying title status and confirming that all documents reflect the agreed terms.

They also work to identify risks early, before they turn into larger issues. This level of review helps keep the transaction on track and protects your position at every stage.

What usually causes delays during a real estate closing?

Many closings are delayed by problems that are not obvious at the start. Financing issues, survey disputes, inspection concerns, title defects and missing paperwork are some of the most common reasons transactions slow down.

In commercial deals, added complications may come from land use restrictions, permit requirements or unresolved lease matters. Small documentation mistakes can also create major setbacks if they are discovered too late.

Contact Us Today

To discuss any real estate or title insurance related matters, contact us online or at 941-366-1300.