THE SCENARIO
A new home hit the market — and it was perfect.
It checked every box, was priced correctly, and the buyers moved quickly. Their offer was accepted, and they hired an attorney to negotiate the contract of sale.
THE ISSUE
The seller was the estate of the longtime homeowner who had recently passed away. Her children, acting as Executors, were handling the sale.
Fortunately, the buyers had the right attorney — one who asked the right questions.
During her due diligence, she discovered a major problem: the property had not yet gone through probate.
THE PROBLEM
Before a deceased person’s assets — including real estate — can be legally sold, the estate must go through probate.
Yet these Executors had interviewed several real estate agents, and not one of them informed the family that probate was required before listing or selling the home.
Even more surprising: their mother’s estate attorney never advised them either!
This meant the home could not be sold until probate was complete — a process that could take months.
THE RESULT
Had these buyers been represented by a perfunctory or ‘transaction-focused’ attorney, this issue might not have surfaced until just before closing! The consequences would have been disastrous:
• A months‑long delay
• An expired rate lock
• Potentially thousands in extra costs
• Major disruptions to the buyers’ moving plans
Thankfully, their attorney caught it early. The buyers rescinded their offer and eventually found another home.
BOTTOM LINE
In my 30+ years in this industry, I’ve seen far too many real estate agents, attorneys, and mortgage loan officers treat transactions like assembly‑line work. They don’t ask questions. They don’t dig deeper. And they certainly don’t think strategically.
Real estate is NOT a “check the box and hope for the best” business.
You need professionals who understand the nuances, anticipate issues, and protect your interests from day one.
CHOOSE YOUR TEAM WISELY.
Don’t select your real estate agent, attorney, or mortgage loan officer based on:
• Price
• Popularity
• Personality
• The company name on the door
Instead, choose experts who are:
• Competent
• Knowledgeable
• Seasoned
• Proactive
• Committed to your best interests, not just the transaction
The right team doesn’t just help you buy a home — they help you avoid costly mistakes.
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Warren Goldberg is President of Mortgage Wealth Advisors, a Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist®, and a published author. His interviews include Blog-Talk Radio, Newsday, The Daily News, Anton Press, and the Long Island Herald. Since 1992, he’s been sharing his financial knowledge and wealth-building strategies, including how to properly use your mortgage as a financial tool. His clients regularly express their trust and appreciation by recommending friends and family call when in need of mortgage, real estate, and financial guidance.
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