Buying a home in Alabama can be exciting—but it’s also a legal transaction with real risks if you don’t have the right guidance. As an Alabama real estate attorney with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen how even well-informed buyers can overlook critical legal details that lead to delays, added costs, or worse—losing the deal entirely.

One of the most common pitfalls I see is homebuyers signing a contract before they fully understand what’s in it. In Alabama, that sales contract becomes legally binding fast. That means if something isn’t written clearly—or if key protections aren’t included—you could end up stuck. Having a real estate attorney review the contract before you sign can give you peace of mind and help you avoid surprises later on.

Another thing to keep in mind is that Alabama is a "buyer beware" state. Sellers aren’t always required to disclose everything about a home’s condition. So if you’re not asking the right questions or getting a thorough inspection, you might not find out about certain issues until after closing. I help my clients make sure they’re protected with the right contingencies and disclosures built into the deal from day one.

Buying a home is likely the biggest investment you'll ever make—having an experienced Alabama real estate attorney by your side can protect you from costly legal surprises.

Avery Brown

Title issues are also a common headache in Alabama real estate transactions. Whether it’s an old lien, unpaid property taxes, or a dispute over ownership, a title problem can derail your closing. I work closely with buyers to review title searches and make sure there’s nothing standing in the way of a clear transfer of ownership.

When it comes time to close, many buyers assume the paperwork is just a formality—but it’s actually the final step in protecting your rights as a new homeowner. From reviewing the final documents to ensuring funds are properly transferred, having a real estate lawyer at the table can make all the difference.

And if you’re buying directly from a seller—especially with a “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) property—or working with a builder on new construction, you may not have a real estate agent guiding you. In these cases, legal support is absolutely essential. I help my clients navigate builder contracts, permitting issues, and custom terms that protect them through the process.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or making your next big move, having an experienced Alabama real estate attorney on your side can save you time, money, and stress. I’ve helped families across Birmingham and Vestavia Hills protect their investments and close with confidence. If you’re preparing to buy a home and want to avoid costly mistakes, let’s talk.

Contact Avery Brown Law Today

If you have questions about wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or other estate planning tools, contact Avery Brown Law. Serving Vestavia Hills and Birmingham since 2011, I’m dedicated to Protecting Your Legacy & Family.

Avery Brown Law
P.O. Box 660942
Vestavia Hills, Alabama 35266
Phone: (205) 296-5344

Let’s work together to protect your future and the ones you love.

Avery Brown May 30, 2025

Over a decade of experience helping Alabama families.