For the Buyer

If you're buying a home, your real estate attorney evaluates and explains the contracts, and makes sure the title is clear and no liens exist on the property. She also completes and registers all documents for your side of the transaction, and attends the closing to make sure documents are signed correctly way.

For the Seller

If you're selling a home, your attorney fields all offers and counteroffers, and creates the final version of the deed for the sale of the property. He also prepares the mechanics lien which states that all work done on the house has been paid for, prepares the certificate of satisfaction to show that the mortgage on the house has been satisfied and attends to the final details at closing.

Compensation

According to CBSalary.com, a U.S. real estate attorney makes an average of $97,429 per year.

Fees

Lendingtree.com reports that lawyer fees on a real estate transaction for buyers or sellers range from $500 to $1,500.

Significance

The seller's attorney needs strong negotiating skills, as problems ranging from insurance issues to an incorrect land survey can potentially derail a real estate deal.

Source:

LendingTree.com: What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?

Landthink.com: What Does a Real Estate Lawyer do for a Seller?

CBSalary.com: Real Estate Lawyer

Resource:

Lawyers.com: Selecting a Good Lawyer