The real estate industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving field that requires legal professionals to navigate complex transactions, regulations, and disputes. Paralegals play a crucial role in supporting attorneys, clients, and businesses in various real estate matters, from residential and commercial property transactions to title issues, easements, and landlord-tenant disputes.

The Role of a Real Estate Paralegal

As a paralegal in the real estate industry, your responsibilities can vary widely depending on the type of real estate law your firm or organization practices. Some of the key areas real estate paralegals work on include:

• Property Transactions – Assisting in drafting purchase agreements, preparing closing documents, and conducting due diligence for buyers and sellers.
• Title Research & Title Insurance – Reviewing title reports, identifying potential issues such as defective deeds, scrivenor’s errors, missing interests, easements or restrictions and conditions which adversely affect the use and enjoyment of the property, encumbrances requiring the payoff and satisfaction of mortgages and other liens, and coordinating with title insurance companies in the preparation of title insurance commitments and policies.
• Landlord-Tenant Law – Helping attorneys with lease agreements, eviction proceedings, and landlord-tenant disputes.
• Zoning & Land Use – Assisting with permitting, zoning approvals, and historic preservation matters.
• Eminent Domain & Affordable Housing – Supporting cases involving government acquisition of property and affordable housing regulations.

Real estate law is broad, covering everything from beach rights to commercial development, and requires paralegals to have a deep understanding of local and state regulations.

The Real Estate Bar Association (REBA) Paralegal Section

For paralegals looking to expand their knowledge and network in the field, the Real Estate Bar Association (REBA) Paralegal Section is an excellent resource. This section provides a forum for paralegals to connect, share insights, and stay updated on industry trends. It also offers educational opportunities through guest speakers, workshops, and discussions on key topics such as title matters, eminent domain, and landlord-tenant law.

MPA is fortunate that the Real Estate Bar Association Paralegal Section has invited our members to attend many of its webinars. MPA is open to any and all suggestions for speakers in this area.