Does real estate attorney function as closing agent in NJ? (refinancing, attorneys)

[artking09]

Does real estate attorney function as closing agent in NJ? Will title company/closing agent be present at the closing? Thanks.

[donald cherry]

#1 yes , #2 no

[davenj08]

Attorney as closing agent = Yes

Title company present at closing = No

Closing Agent (aka Attorney) present at closing = Yes

[4NJseasons]

Depends. I have done a real estate closing in the office of the title company in NJ. Both the seller and buyer (me) did not have an attorney for that deal though. The title company prepared the paperwork and their employee notarized the documents in their office at the time of closing.

[davenj08]

Originally Posted by 4NJseasons

Depends. I have done a real estate closing in the office of the title company in NJ. Both the seller and buyer (me) did not have an attorney for that deal though. The title company prepared the paperwork and their employee notarized the documents in their office at the time of closing.

For refinancing I would consider that but for a first time home buyer, I would strongly recommend using an attorney. Agreed, most attorneys don't do much help but in case there are complications or if the seller or seller's attorney tries to be crafty.