A Real Estate Attorney in Your Corner From Contract to Closing

Buying or selling a home is one of the largest financial decisions you'll make — and in New Jersey, having an attorney review your contract isn't just smart, it's standard practice. I've been handling residential real estate matters in Woodbury and across Gloucester County for over 45 years, and I work directly with every client, start to finish.

What I Handle in Residential Real Estate

William A. Sheehan Supporting Clients Across New Jersey

In New Jersey, buyers and sellers typically have three business days after signing a contract to have an attorney review it and request changes. That window closes fast. If you're already under contract or about to sign, the time to call is now — not after the deadline has passed.

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Buying a Home

Whether you're a first-time buyer or purchasing your next property, I review the purchase contract during the attorney review period, negotiate any necessary modifications, coordinate with your lender and title company, and represent you at closing. My job is to make sure you understand exactly what you're signing and that your interests are protected before any money changes hands.

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Selling a Home

Sellers face their own set of risks — from contract terms that favor the buyer to last-minute title issues that can delay or derail a closing. I review the contract on your behalf, respond to any buyer attorney requests during attorney review, and work to keep the transaction moving toward a clean settlement.

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What the Attorney Review Period Actually Means for You

In New Jersey, the three-day attorney review period is one of the most important protections available to buyers and sellers — and one of the most misunderstood. During this window, your attorney can disapprove the contract entirely, propose modifications, or accept it as written. Once the period closes without action, the contract becomes binding.

 

This is not a formality. Contract language around contingencies, inspection rights, closing timelines, and what happens if a deal falls through can have significant financial consequences. Having a real estate contract review completed by an experienced attorney during this period is the most cost-effective step you can take in the entire transaction.

Why Clients in Gloucester County Work With Me

I'm a solo practitioner, which means when you hire me, you get me — not a paralegal or a junior associate handling the details while a senior attorney's name sits on the letterhead. I've been practicing in this area since 1979, and I've handled residential closings across Gloucester County, including Woodbury, Deptford, Washington Township, West Deptford, and the surrounding communities.

 

Real estate transactions move quickly and the stakes are high. You deserve an attorney who knows your file, answers your questions directly, and is reachable when something comes up.

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Common Questions About Real Estate Law in New Jersey

Answers Designed To Keep You Protected

  • Do I need a lawyer to buy a house in New Jersey?

    New Jersey does not legally require an attorney for a residential purchase, but the state's attorney review process is built around the assumption that both parties will have one. Without an attorney, you lose the ability to modify or disapprove the contract during the review period — and you're left navigating title, lender, and closing requirements on your own. Most buyers and sellers in NJ work with an attorney, and for good reason.

  • How long does attorney review last in New Jersey?

    The attorney review period is three business days, beginning the day after all parties have signed the contract. Either side's attorney can disapprove or propose modifications during this window. If no action is taken, the contract becomes binding at the end of the period.

  • What does a real estate attorney do at closing?

    At closing, I review the final settlement statement and closing disclosure with you, confirm that all agreed-upon terms have been met, and make sure the documents you're signing accurately reflect the transaction. If any last-minute issues arise — title problems, incorrect figures, missing documentation — I'm there to address them before you sign.

  • How much does a real estate attorney cost in New Jersey?

    Fees vary depending on the complexity of the transaction, but residential real estate representation is typically a flat fee paid at closing. I'm straightforward about costs from the start — affordability is something I take seriously, and I'll give you a clear picture of what to expect before we begin.

  • Can you help if a problem comes up after the contract is signed?

    Yes. Issues can surface at any point in a transaction — a title defect, a failed inspection, a lender delay, or a dispute over what's included in the sale. If a problem arises after attorney review has closed, I can still advise you on your options and work to resolve it before closing.