• Dear Future Homeowner,

    Dear Future Homeowner,

  • Thank you for selecting Johannesmeyer & Sawyer to represent you in the purchase of your new property! We look forward to assisting you with a smooth and successful closing.

    We would like to take this opportunity to outline what you can expect during the process and from our office.

  • Our Role

  • As your closing attorneys, we will update the title to the property and prepare the settlement documents. Most closings involve only the title search and preparation of documents. However, should you require additional representation before closing—or if additional work becomes necessary (such as drafting and escrow agreement, encroachment agreement, or other documents)—a separate fee will be charged depending on the complexity of the matter.

    Our attorney fee for purchase closings ranges from $495-$550 depending on the state. Please note that third-party expenses (such as the title binder, title search, document retention, survey, termite report, title insurance, and recording fees) are not included in this fee.

  • Title Searches and Updates

  • In some cases, a title search update will be performed. This begins from the date and time of issuance of the seller’s prior title insurance policy. If a prior title policy is available, we will not search records prior to that issuance date. As such, we cannot certify title conditions prior to that time. However, your title insurance policy should protect you against covered claims, even if they arise from earlier issues.

    Please be aware that a title search can take significant time. Unless you instruct us otherwise, we will begin work soon after we receive this buyer’s information form. All third-party fees are billable, even if your transaction does not close. If you are uncertain about proceeding, please notify us to delay the work. Delaying until just before closing may require us to reschedule your closing date.

  • Surveys

  • Although not always required, we strongly encourage all buyers to obtain a current, accurate survey of the property. In some cases, our title company may require one to issue clear title. Please note that our office will not order surveys on your behalf, but we are happy to provide referrals. If you obtain a survey, please deliver it to our office well in advance of closing for review.

  • Tax Letter

  • Your lender, if applicable, may request an estimated tax letter from our office for escrow purposes. Please note this is only an estimate, and we are not liable for discrepancies.

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  • Additional Considerations

    • Zoning and Environmental Hazards: Standard title searches do not address zoning or environmental matters (e.g., radon gas, lead paint, asbestos, underground tanks Please notify us at least two weeks before closing if you require information on these issues.
    • Closing Volume: Most closings are scheduled at month-end, creating high demand. For a smoother experience, we recommend scheduling mid-month if possible.
    • NC Settlements: To accommodate scheduling, a notary or closing agent may sometimes conduct document signings. Our attorneys remain fully involved in all title certifications and processes. Additional fees may apply.

  • Funds Policy

    • All funds over $5,000.00 (including earnest money deposits) must be wired.
    • ACH transfers are not accepted and will be rejected/returned by our bank.
    • Personal checks are only accepted for earnest money deposits up to $5,000.00.
    • Returned checks are subject to a $25 fee.
    • Funds for closing in the amount of $500.00 or less can be paid via personal check.
    • Funds for closing over $500-$5,000.00 can be paid via cashier’s check.

    To protect you from wire fraud, we use CERTIFID to securely validate your identity and share our wiring instructions. You can also pick up a hard copy of our wiring instructions from any location.

  • WARNING:

    • If you receive wiring instructions outside of CERTIFID, stop and call us immediately using a verified

    • Do not trust contact information provided in suspicious emails.

    • ALWAYS CONFIRM WIRING INSTRUCTIONS WITH US BEFORE SENDING ANY FUNDS.

    The undersigned Buyer(s) hereby acknowledge(s) that they have read and understand the foregoing and agree to the terms stated herein.

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  • Buyer 1

  • Buyer 2:

  • Please Note: If married, and both spouses are on the contract and loan, both must attend closing.

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  • Buyer Questionnaire

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  • Buyer Acknowledgements (Initial each):

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