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446 Morris Ave. 1st Floor

Springfield NJ 07081

WELCOME TO THE LAW OFFICE OF CASEY M. EGGER

Real Estate Attorney

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions - The Process

What is the role of a real estate attorney in New Jersey transactions?

While it is not Required to retain a Real Estate Lawyer in New Jersey, having one can make a significant difference in the entire process. Real estate attorneys in New Jersey are instrumental in facilitating property transactions.  I review and draft contracts, conduct due diligence, address title issues, handle negotiations, and represent clients at the closing.  My expertise helps clients navigate the complex legal landscape of real estate transactions and protects their interests.

What is Attorney Review? How long does it last?

Once a contract is signed by both the Buyers and Sellers, the parties have 3 business days to retain an attorney to review the contract commence Attorney Review. It is the custom and standard in New Jersey for the Buyer’s attorney to commence Attorney Review, which is done by sending a written Notice of Disapproval. This language can be alarming to some people, but we are required to use it to prevent the boilerplate, “fill in the blank” contract from becoming strictly binding as written. If neither attorney disapproves of the Contract within the first 3 business days, the Contract will become legally binding without modification, which is not generally beneficial to either party. 

During Attorney Review, the attorneys exchange correspondence requesting changes to the contract which they believe are in their client’s best interests, that are considered industry standard, or that are specific to the particular property or township. After the proposed revisions are discussed, negotiated, and finally agreed-upon, the contract will be “Out of Attorney Review” and becomes legally binding. This milestone is strategically important because, until Attorney Review is concluded, either party can change their mind and cancel the contract with no explanation required. When representing a Buyer in a multiple-offer situation, we try get in and out of Attorney Review as quickly as possible to prevent the Seller from accepting a different [better] offer. 

At CME Law Firm, we pride ourselves on commencing, and often concluding, Attorney Review within 3-4 business hours of first being retained by a Buyer, with the same turnaround time for drafting our response on behalf of a Seller. Many general practice attorneys will “squeeze in” real estate transactions between court appearances, board meetings, and depositions, which can lead to slow turnaround times and Attorney Review dragging on for days or even weeks! At CME Law Firm, our focus is real estate and real estate only, and we understand the need to move quickly when the market so demands

Can we renegotiate the terms after Attorney Review is concluded? Can I back out of the contract?

Once Attorney Review is concluded, the parties are legally obligated to pursue the closing in good faith and using their best efforts. This means the terms cannot be renegotiated or removed, and neither party can “back out” unless one of the contingencies fail. The standard contingencies include (1) inspection, (2) mortgage / appraisal, (3) title / legal authority to sell. 

Assuming no issues with any of these contingencies, both parties are obligated to close or may be deemed in breach of contract. Breaching a contract can expose you to a lawsuit for monetary damages and other hefty penalties, so it is crucial to “be sure” you are ready to buy / sell before entering into a contract. The most common claims for breach of contract arise from: 

  • Failure of a Buyer to disclose its financial ability to obtain a mortgage / finance its down payment and closing costs. This includes a Buyer who offers an appraisal waiver but does not have the extra money to bridge an appraisal gap. 

  • Failure of a Seller to disclose material defects with the property (including title defects).  

  • Unreasonable delays and failure to actively pursue obligations and duties (for example, a Buyer who has not opened a loan application weeks after the contract is finalized, or a Seller who makes no arrangements to vacate the property by the agreed closing date). 

  • Simply changing your mind about wanting to sell / buy. 

The property is listed “As-Is” – can the Buyer still inspect?

“As-Is” is a legal term which simply means a Seller will NOT be in breach of contract for refusing to make repairs requested by the Buyer. Contrary to popular belief, “As-Is” does NOT mean a Buyer is required to buy a house regardless of its condition following an unfavorable home inspection. In most cases, the Buyer is still entitled to conduct the usual home inspections and can terminate the contract if there are material defects which cannot be negotiated between the parties. 

The scope of permissible inspection requests and the Buyer’s right to terminate are specific to your contract. One common limitation (typically outlined in the Buyer’s offer) is “structural and environmental only.” In this case, the Buyer would ONLY be permitted to terminate if there are material structural defects (e.g., extensive termite damage, cracks beams in the basement or attic) or environmental defects (e.g., mold, asbestos, radon or soil contamination) AND the Seller refuses to address / repair / remediate those items. In this same example, if the home has no structural or environmental issues but there are issues with the HVAC system, plumbing, etc., the Buyer CANNOT terminate the contract and will be required to proceed notwithstanding those defects. Be sure to review your inspection limitations with our office and your realtor before concluding Attorney Review – these limitations cannot later be changed! 

What is a material defect? What can the Seller be asked to repair and when can the Buyer terminate? 

The New Jersey statutory definition of material defect is “a condition or functional aspect of the property that substantially affects the value, habitability or safety of the dwelling but does not include merely decorative, stylistic, cosmetic, or aesthetic aspects of the system.”

In the context of a real estate transaction, this will include structural defects, issues with the major systems (plumbing, electric, and HVAC), environmental concerns, and the broader catch-all “health and safety hazards.” 

What is excluded from Inspections?

Cosmetic Defects – e.g., discolored / chipped paint; stains on tile; scratches on hard wood floors; sidewalk cracks.

Upgrades –e.g., your inspector recommends a 200amp instead of a 100amp electric panel; you need a different grade or size of attic insulation for more efficient heating & cooling; three-prong outlets instead of outdated two-prong outlets. 

Systems that are in working order but past or nearing average life – e.g., Your inspector states the hot water heater is 15 years old and should be replaced as it is past its average life expectancy, but is properly functioning; Your inspector advises you to budget for a new roof as the existing roof appears to be 20 years old and nearing its average life expectancy. As long as these items are in working condition, a Buyer cannot require a replacement or a credit for replacement.   

Normal maintenance – e.g., leaves and debris need to be cleaned from the gutters; HVAC filter requires replacement; chimney should be swept. 

How are inspections negotiated?

Assuming you are the Buyer and received your home inspection report, my office will ask you for a list of items you wish for the Sellers to remedy prior to closing. If my staff believes you are over-reaching or that your requests are not appropriate, we will counsel you to focus only on material defects as described above. We will prepare a repair request letter for your final approval before sending it to the Seller’s attention.

If you are a Seller, all reports and correspondence received will be sent to you for review and comment. We can work through the requests together and come up with a reasonable response, with the goal of keeping the Buyer engaged and in contract. 

The home inspection report may recommend further investigation or inspection (e.g., chimney inspection, mold analysis), which is the responsibility of the Buyer. Either party may obtain quotes or estimates for repairs to present during inspection negotiations. If you are a Buyer, it is important to schedule your inspections immediately upon conclusion of Attorney Review, in the event additional time is needed for these follow-up visits. 

It is important for each party to put themselves in the other’s shoes – if you were a Buyer, would you accept these active plumbing leaks and the resulting mold? If you were a Seller, would you prioritize a ripped window screen, or would you think the Buyer is simply nit-picking?

Maintaining an objective perspective during inspection negotiations can make the process smoother and encourage a mutually acceptable resolution. 

The Seller’s response to inspection requests could be that they will address all issues, or that they will address none of the issues, or something in between. In lieu of repairs, the parties could agree on a monetary credit to resolve some or all requests.  Inspection negotiations are done primarily via attorneys, but it is not uncommon for the realtors to discuss these issues directly. The objective of all parties will [hopefully] be to negotiate a mutually acceptable resolution, although this is not always possible and the inspection phase is where many contracts “die.” If the Seller declines to address / repair / correct material defects, the Buyer may have the right to cancel the Contract pursuant to the inspection contingency. This right of termination is not applicable to all Buyers, as further discussed above. 

What inspections do I need?

All home inspection reports must be prepared by a licensed NJ home inspector (not a friend or family member, no matter how knowledgeable) and should include a Wood Destroying Insect (WDI) inspection. If the property is a free-standing structure, we recommend having an oil tank sweep AND a sewer line inspection (not needed for condos, etc.). If the property has a basement, a radon test should be conducted. Your home inspector may offer these as add-on services to be completed the same day as the general inspection, and we are happy to provide referrals if needed. 

Depending on the property characteristics and the results of the initial inspections, the additional inspections listed below may be applicable to your transaction. These are typically not offered by your general home inspector and must be separately scheduled. Referrals are available if needed. 

  • Chimney

  • Septic   

  • Stucco / EIFS Siding

  • Mold / Asbestos 

  • Basement Waterproofing  

  • Soil Testing 

  • Private Well 

What is a survey? Do I need one?

A survey is essentially a map depicting the general layout of the property and indicates the boundary lines and any improvements on the land (e.g., garage, driveway, fence, patio, etc.). A survey is prepared by a professional land surveyor to map out the land included in the property deed in detail, including information about any encroachments on the land, easements, rights-of-way, and potential zoning violations. 

In addition to providing a clear picture of the land you’re responsible for and where you can build, it provides conclusive knowledge of whether there are encroachments extending onto or beyond your lot lines. As with all other aspects of the property, once the closing occurs, the Seller is no longer liable for any survey defects. For this reason, we strongly recommend all Buyers obtain a survey prior to closing. 

While a survey is not generally required at the time of purchase, the town will need one if you decide to install or replace a fence / shed / house addition / patio / deck; and would be helpful in any disputes with neighbors regarding trees/ fences/ driveways potentially crossing over the lot lines. A survey typically costs $800-$1,000 depending on the size and shape of the lot. There is an extra fee to have "corner markers" placed on the lot

What is a partial or full appraisal waiver?

Generally, appraisal waivers are agreed upon between the Buyer and Seller during initial contract negotiations and prior to signing the Contract of Sale. For most transactions, the purchase price will be subject to approval by a Buyer’s lender and can be reduced if the property appraises for less than the sale price. An appraisal waiver, if agreed upon by both parties, will guarantee a certain sale price regardless of appraisal value.

With a full appraisal waiver, the Buyer commits to paying the full sale price notwithstanding a potentially low appraisal. A partial appraisal waiver, the Buyer is committing to pay a certain dollar amount above the appraisal value, up to the agreed-upon sale price. By offering an appraisal waiver, Buyers are representing that they have the liquid funds to bridge the gap between the appraised value of the property and the purchase price.

If the property appraises “too low”, can a Buyer rescind its appraisal waiver?

To put it simply, the answer is NO.  A Buyer cannot rescind an appraisal waiver once Attorney Review has concluded and cannot legally terminate the Contract if they can no longer produce the liquid funds at closing.  Moreover, a denial letter from Buyer’s Lender citing low appraisal as the reason for loan denial shall not override the contractual appraisal waiver.  If you waived the appraisal but do not have enough cash at the time of closing, you will be in breach of contract. Therefore, it is crucial you fully understand the implication of any appraisal waiver before concluding Attorney Review.

What is title insurance and is it required?

Title insurance is a type of insurance that protects property owners and lenders against financial loss due to defects in the title of a property. These defects can include mortgages from any owner in the chain of title, liens, encumbrances, undisclosed heirs, and other challenges that may arise in the chain of ownership. 

In New Jersey, title insurance is not legally required, but it is strongly recommended in ALL real estate transactions. While the state does not mandate title insurance, ALL lenders will require a lender's title insurance policy to protect their interest in the property. 

Here's an overview of the two main types of title insurance policies:

  • Lender's Title Insurance: This policy is required by the lender (whether at the time of purchase or refinance) and protects the lender's financial investment in the property. It is usually based on the loan amount and decreases as the mortgage is paid off. Lender's title insurance does not protect the Buyer's interests.

  • Owner's Title Insurance: This policy is technically optional but, for liability reasons, our firm will not agree to represent a Buyer who refuses title insurance. The insurance policy protects the property owner's right of ownership and pays to defend him/her in future legal actions which challenge that right. The amount of coverage will generally equal the sale price of the home and the cost is regulated by the State of New Jersey; whichever New Jersey title company issues the policy, the cost will be the same. The fee for title insurance is charged as a one-time premium and paid at the time of closing, but the coverage lasts as long as the owner or their heirs have an interest in the property. 

    The title insurance process involves a State and County records search to identify any mortgages, liens, or other potential issues with the property's title. If issues are found, they are typically resolved before the closing by the Seller; however, even with a thorough title search, some hidden defects may later emerge and title insurance provides coverage for these unforeseen issues. If the Seller is unable to clear title defects, the transaction will likely be terminated as a result and the deposit will be returned to the Buyer. 

Frequently Asked Questions - Closings

What Happens on the day of closing?

The closing day in a New Jersey real estate transaction is a crucial event where ownership of the property is officially transferred from the Seller to the Buyer. Here's an overview of what typically happens on the day of closing:

  • Final Walk-Through: Before the closing, the Buyer conducts a final walk-through of the property. This is to ensure that the property is in the agreed-upon condition and that any repairs or improvements negotiated in the contract have been completed.

  • Document Review: Both parties, along with their respective attorneys, gather to review and sign the necessary legal documents. These documents may include the deed, the bill of sale, the closing statement, and any other documents required by the lender or local authorities.

  • Funds Transfer: The Buyer brings a certified or cashier's check to cover the closing costs and any remaining down payment. Alternatively, funds may be wired electronically. The closing agent ensures that all funds are properly distributed to the appropriate parties, including the Seller, real estate agents, and any third parties involved.

  • Title Transfer: The Seller transfers the title to the Buyer through the delivery of a signed and notarized deed. The deed is then recorded with the county clerk's office to officially reflect the change in ownership. Please keep in mind, deeds take approximately two (2) to three (3) months to be recorded.  The original recorded deed will be mailed to the Buyer within that timeframe.

  • Distribution of Documents: Copies of all relevant documents are distributed to the Buyer, Seller, and their respective attorneys. These documents serve as proof of the transaction and should be kept for future reference. Loan Approval and Mortgage Documents: If the Buyer is financing the purchase with a mortgage, the lender may send a representative or provide the necessary documents for the Buyer to sign. The Buyer's attorney will review these documents to ensure they align with the agreed-upon terms

  • Closing Statement: The closing statement outlines all the financial details of the transaction, including the purchase price, closing costs, and any adjustments. Both parties review and sign this document.

  • Possession of the Property: The Buyer usually takes possession of the property on the closing day. The exact timing may vary, and it's typically specified in the sales contract.

  • Recording of Documents: After the closing, the deed and other relevant documents are recorded with the county clerk's office. This official recording is crucial for establishing the Buyer's legal ownership of the property.

    The closing process can vary, and the above steps may be adjusted based on the specific terms of the real estate contract and local practices. 

When are we closing? 

The short answer is “I don’t know.” The more detailed answer will depend on multiple factors and closing requirements, which all need to be completed and in place before we can even schedule a closing. While the contract will specify a closing date, this is a moving target only and no one should schedule movers, switch utilities or end their lease until the closing date is confirmed by the attorneys, the lender and the title company. We make every effort to close on the date in the contract, but with all the moving pieces, it is very common for the date to be changed.  

The following questions must be answered affirmatively before the closing date is confirmed: 

  • Is the lender clear to close? We cannot schedule a closing until the Buyer’s lender has issued a final “clear to close”. One of the final steps is for the lender to issue a preliminary Closing Disclosure statement to be signed by the Buyer – closing cannot occur until at least 3 business days after the CD is signed by the Buyer (TRID regulations). This means once the Lender distributes the Buyer’s preliminary Closing Disclosure Statement, the file cannot close until three (3) business days have passed.

  • Is the title clear? Before we can close, we need all of Seller’s payoffs and lien discharges, the deed & sale documents to be approved, and final water / sewer readings from the township. If there is an HOA, we need a closing statement from the association. 

  • Do we have the resale certificates from the township? All townships in NJ require a fire inspection / smoke certificate to ensure the house has proper smoke / CO detectors and fire extinguishers. About half of the townships require a Certificate of Occupancy to ensure there are no code violations or open permits. The Seller is generally responsible for obtaining these certificates before closing. If they are not received, we generally cannot close. 

  • Have the Sellers moved out? Prior to the closing you will do a final walk-through of the home to ensure that the Sellers have completely moved out, that any agreed upon repairs have been completed, and that the home is empty and in ‘broom clean’ condition. Many times, the final walk-through takes place a few hours before the closing is scheduled, and it has the potential to delay us if the Seller is not entirely moved out, or if there is new damage to the property. 

    Prior to closing, a Buyer must arrange to deliver the funds to closing. The settlement agent cannot accept a personal check – only wire transfers or certified checks are permitted. We try to tell the Buyer the amount needed as far in advance of closing as possible which wholly depends on when our office receives the final figures form the settlement agent. It is not unusual to not know this exact number until the day before, or the morning of, closing.

Do I have to physically attend the closing?

Buyers must attend the closing to sign loan documents in person, as lenders will not accept digital electronic signatures. Documents must be signed by hand, preferably in blue ink. If Buyers cannot attend a closing, we may be able to arrange for a mobile notary or a closing via Power of Attorney. If you believe this may be the case, we must be informed no later than 15 days prior to closing to obtain the required authorizations from your lender. 

Sellers, on the other hand, generally do not attend the closing and will sign their documents ahead of time. The Seller documents are notarized in advanced and mailed to the closing agent, who hold those in escrow until the closing has been completed. Our office will arrange for the delivery of your sale proceeds, either via wire transfer for overnight delivery.

What are the costs for a closing in New Jersey?

The costs associated with closing on a property in New Jersey can vary based on several factors, including the purchase price of the property, the mortgage amount, and specific arrangements negotiated between the Buyer and Seller. The costs are typically negotiable between the Buyer and Seller as outlined in the sales contract. However, there are some common expenses we encounter during the closing process. 

Seller: It's essential for Sellers to review the terms of their sales contract and consult with us to understand the specific costs associated with their transaction.

  • Real Estate Agent Commissions: Sellers often pay a commission to their real estate agents. The commission is typically a percentage of the sale price and is agreed upon between the Seller and the listing agent before the property is listed.

  • Attorney Fees: Attorney fees can vary based on the complexity of the transaction and the services provided.

  • Transfer Taxes: New Jersey imposes a Realty Transfer Fee, which is a tax due upon the transfer of real property. The fee is typically based on the sale price, and is subject to reduction if both Sellers are over the age of 62. 

  • Outstanding Liens and Judgments: Sellers are responsible for clearing any outstanding liens or judgments on the property. This may include outstanding mortgage balances, property tax liens, child support judgments or other encumbrances.

  • Prorated Property Taxes and HOA Fees: Sellers may be responsible for reimbursing the Buyer for property taxes and homeowners association (HOA) fees that have been prepaid. These amounts are typically prorated based on the closing date.

  • Miscellaneous Fees: Other potential costs include fees for document preparation such as Escrow Agreements & Use and Occupancy Agreements, courier services, and any agreed-upon repairs or credits to the Buyer. 

    As A Buyer: It's important for Buyers to review the Loan Estimate provided by the Lender early in the transaction and compare it to the Closing Disclosure provided before the closing day. These documents outline the expected costs, and any discrepancies should be addressed to the lender or real estate professionals. Buyers may negotiate with the Seller to cover certain closing costs or may request that the costs be rolled into the mortgage, depending on the terms of the purchase agreement. Some of the typical closing costs include: 

  • Down Payment: The down payment is a percentage of the home's purchase price that the Buyer pays upfront. The amount depends on the mortgage program and is not a closing cost per se, but it's a significant upfront expense.

  • Lender Closing Costs: These fees and charges are specific to your lender and loan product, and can include loan origination fees, appraisal fees, credit report fees, required escrows, etc. Consult with your lender for a breakdown of these costs. 

  • Title Insurance and Settlement: As discussed above, the title insurance premium is calculated from the sale price of the home. The title company who issues the insurance policy will perform related settlement services which, depending on the complexity of the title transfer, can be up to $1,500.  

  • Recording Fees of $300-$500. 

  • Attorney Fees: Attorney fees can vary based on the complexity of the transaction and the services provided. Additional legal fees may be charged if you close with an escrow or  post-closing occupancy agreement. 

  • Homeowners Insurance: Buyers typically need to prepay the first year of homeowners insurance before closing. The amount can vary based on the insurance provider and the coverage chosen.

  • Property Taxes: Depending on when the property taxes are due, Buyers may need to pay a prorated amount at closing to cover the period from the closing date to the next tax due date. You can expect to pay 4-5 months of property taxes at the time of closing. 

  • HOA Fees: If you are purchasing a home within an association, you will generally be required to pay a capital contribution fee at the time of closing.

Can you back out of a closing?

Generally, a real estate contract is a legally binding agreement, and once both parties have signed the Contract of Sale/Attorney Review Letters, they are expected to fulfill the terms outlined in the contract. However, there are situations where a party may be able to back out without facing significant legal consequences. Some common scenarios include the failure of contingencies or a mutual agreement of cancellation. It's crucial to note that unilaterally backing out of a real estate contract without legal justification could lead to legal consequences, including the loss of earnest money or even a lawsuit for damages.

Frequently Asked Questions - After Closing

What if I discover defects in the home after closing?

By electing to close title on the property, you are representing that you are fully satisfied with the condition of the property, including any repairs which were completed before closing. There are no warranties or guarantees for anything in the house (including recent repairs, items you did not discover during the inspection period, or things which come up at any time after closing). Once you close on the property, we have no recourse against the Seller if something breaks, stops working, etc.

What happens if there are issues with the title after closing?

If title issues surface after closing, the first step is to review the title insurance policy. The policy will outline the specific coverages and conditions under which the title insurance company will provide protection. The title insurance company will initiate an investigation into the matter and determine whether the issue is covered by your policy. This may involve a review of public records, legal documents, and any relevant information pertaining to the title. Depending on the complexity of the title issue, legal assistance may be required.

What legal documents should I keep after closing?

After closing on a home, it's crucial to retain and organize important legal documents related to the real estate transaction. Here is a list of key documents that you should keep in a safe and accessible location:

  • Settlement Statement (HUD-1 or Closing Disclosure): This document provides an itemized list of all charges and credits involved in the real estate transaction, including closing costs and the distribution of funds.

  • Title Insurance Policy: Copies of the title insurance policy, which protects against defects in the title and provides coverage for certain issues that may arise after closing.

  • Homeowners Insurance Policy: The insurance policy that provides coverage for potential property damage or liability. Keep a copy of the policy and any updates.

  • Home Inspection Reports: Reports from any inspections conducted before the purchase, detailing the condition of the property and any identified issues.

  • Warranty Documents: If applicable, retain any warranties provided by the builder or Seller for appliances, systems, or structural elements.

  • Loan Documents: Copies of all documents related to the mortgage loan, including the promissory note, mortgage, and any other loan agreements.

  • Property Survey: A survey of the property, which outlines the boundaries, easements, and other relevant details. This is particularly important for verifying property lines.

  • Property Tax Records: Documentation of property tax payments, assessments, and any relevant correspondence from tax authorities.

  • Receipts for Home Improvements: Keep receipts and documentation for any significant home improvements or renovations, as these may affect the property's value.

  • Homeowner Association (HOA) Documents: If applicable, retain copies of HOA agreements, bylaws, covenants, and any correspondence with the HOA.

  • Closing Documents: Any additional documents provided at the closing, including the Notice of Right to Cancel (for refinances) and other relevant paperwork.

  • Receipts and Invoices: Keep receipts for closing costs, moving expenses, and any other related expenses. These may be useful for tax purposes.

  • Home Manual or Instructions: If the Seller provides a manual or instructions for systems in the home (e.g., HVAC, security systems), keep these for reference.

    Maintaining a well-organized file with these documents is important for future reference, potential legal issues, and for any eventual resale of the property. Consider keeping both physical copies and digital backups in a secure location. 

Buying or Selling a home is the most significant financial transaction that many individuals undertake in their lifetime. While this can be an exciting time, without the proper legal guidance the process can be frustrating, overwhelming, and more expensive than necessary. Even if there are no obvious disagreements between the Buyer and Seller, it is advisable for each party to enter into a transaction with one’s own attorney who can help steer them away from common pitfalls and facilitate a smooth transfer of property.


While it may seem like a relatively straightforward transaction, each step of the process represents a potential point of disagreement or misunderstanding. Your attorney must have the knowledge and experience to spot any issues in the contract and purchase or sale process.


Our team will spend the time understanding your transaction and negotiating the best contract terms for you. We manage and oversee each milestone event from negotiating the contract and inspection concerns, clearing title, satisfying lender conditions, all the way to the closing table.


We offer legal representation and closing services to buyers, sellers, and private lenders throughout New Jersey. We are not a general practice firm - our focus is real estate, and real estate only.


If you are considering buying, selling, or investing in real estate, consult our firm to ensure that your transaction is properly structured, and your interests are protected.

Meet Our Team

Casey M Egger, ESQ

Casey M Egger, ESQ

Casey founded the firm in 2020 and centers her practice on a broad range of transactional real estate matters. With the specialized assistance of our paralegals, Casey personally oversees hundreds of residential and commercial real estate transactions each year. In addition to representing buyers and sellers in residential mortgage transactions, she is counsel to real estate investors, developers, and lenders, and specializes in complex joint venture agreements and securing private money investments.


Casey has been engaged in real estate law since 2012 and is licensed to practice in both New Jersey. She previously worked in the Legal Aid Society's Domestic Violence Unit, where she served as a legal advocate for women seeking protection from their abusers. She received her J.D. from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Cleveland State University and her bachelor’s degree from the College of Saint Elizabeth in Madison, New Jersey

Rita E. Dunleavy, Esq

Natalie Slezak,

Rita E. Dunleavy, Esq. received her Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University and her Juris Doctorate from St. Thomas University School of Law.

Prior to practicing Real Estate Law, Rita gained invaluable experience over the course of her career in private practice representing clients ranging from corporations to small businesses. Rita uses the experience she has gained to help efficiently navigate through all the intricacies of real estate transactions. Her experience includes all aspects of real estate, from contract negotiations to closing. Rita is committed to providing professional legal services while maintaining high standards of excellence. She is well respected in the legal community and has a reputation for honesty, sincerity with her clients, and compassion for the sensitive legal matters at hand. Rita exhibits patience and professionalism at all times and is a trusted advisor to her clients.

Natalie Slezak, Paralegal

Natalie Slezak,

Natalie is an experienced paralegal and assists with all aspects of the firm’s real estate practice including commercial, residential, and multi-family acquisitions and sales, and other real estate financing agreements. She manages each stage of her assigned transactions including the preparation of purchase agreements and other documents, due diligence review, analysis and resolution of title and survey issues, and organizing transaction closings.


Natalie began her legal career in 2012 working as a data entry clerk at a major law firm in New York City before going on to work as a legal assistant to an Estate Planning attorney. In March 2013, Natalie chose to steer her career as a real estate paralegal and has been working in the industry ever since. Natalie graduated from Rutgers University-Newark in 2011 and later obtained her Masters in Law and Government Policy from Montclair State University. Natalie holds her real estate license and is a member of the North Central Jersey Association of REALTORS.

Karen Leale, Paralegal

Karen Leale, ParaLegal

Karen is a real estate paralegal who is responsible for facilitating communications between the lawyers for the buyer and seller, negotiating inspections, reviewing title reports, and preparing closing documents. Karen enjoys working closely with attorneys, clients, and lenders to facilitate timely and successful closings.


Karen has almost 40 years of legal experience in various business settings. She began her legal career in corporate law in 1982 for a local New Jersey pharmaceutical company, reporting directly to the firm's head General Counsel. In 1989, she decided to be a stay at home mother to her two children until 1999 when she re-entered the workforce as a real estate paralegal. She is a licensed New Jersey Notary Public.

"I first retained Casey to handle the closing of my house. My wife and I were so incredibly impressed. Casey has an impressive knowledge, was constantly accessible, and everything involving the closing process was available online for immediate review. For such a big purchase, Casey had our backs 100% and made the process absolutely seamless.


Since then, I’ve referred personal friends to Casey for their closings, and they rave about her too."

Facebook Review

"I first retained Casey to handle the closing of my house. My wife and I were so incredibly impressed. Casey has an impressive knowledge, was constantly accessible, and everything involving the closing process was available online for immediate review. For such a big purchase, Casey had our backs 100% and made the process absolutely seamless.




Since then, I’ve referred personal friends to Casey for their closings, and they rave about her too."

Facebook Review

446 Morris Ave. 1st Floor

Springfield NJ 07081

🏢 446 Morris Ave, 1st Floor

Springfield NJ 07081

446 Morris Ave. 1st Floor

Springfield NJ 07081