what documents in rhode island do i need to sell a house with power of attorney

by Alysa Marquardt 4 min read

The authorized agent must bring the power of attorney document and the new deed to the real estate closing. The agent or the buyer should file the new deed with the Registry of Deeds in their county once the transfer is complete. How a POA Can Transfer Property

Full Answer

Do I need a real estate attorney in Rhode Island?

Aug 15, 2020 · Conversely, should the buyer need to be in place prior to the completion of the sale of your house in Rhode Island, this will require a pre-occupancy agreement. Third-Party Financing Clause When you need to sell, you could consider getting a mortgage on your house as another source of financing for your buyer in Rhode Island.

Should I Sell my Rhode Island Home DIY or by owner?

Feb 01, 2022 · Rhode Island does not require you to use a lawyer to make a power of attorney. You can create your own by using a form from a reliable source like FindLaw and following the above steps. If you need legal advice or would feel more comfortable with an attorney’s help, you can ask an estate planning attorney licensed in Rhode Island to review your completed form or …

What are standard Rhode Island realtor forms?

Sep 15, 2021 · “The only documents truly required to sell the home — the deed and the mortgage — are already public record, and accessible to the closing company,” Jones points out. “The seller simply needs to provide whatever is requested , fill out any required disclosure forms under stage law, and cooperate with the title company as necessary.”

What paperwork do I need to sell my house?

Apr 30, 2021 · Rhode Island: A Rhode Island Supreme Court decision in 2020 requires a licensed attorney to examine and certify the title, as well as draft or review the deed. South Carolina: A South Carolina Supreme Court decision in 1986 requires a licensed attorney to conduct real estate closings in person.

How does a realtor work in Rhode Island?

How realtor commissions work in Rhode Island. Traditionally, both the buyer's agent and the listing agent are paid a commission by the homeowner. When sellers work with a realtor, they negotiate a commission as part of the listing agreement.

What is the average realtor commission rate in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, the average realtor commission rate is 5.00% to 5.30%. If you sell a house worth $372,800 — the median home value in Rhode Island — that’s over $9,900, which is a huge chunk of your potential profits.

What to do when you find a buyer for your house?

Once you find a buyer for your house, it's time to start the closing process. In a typical real estate transaction, your agent will make sure you fill out all the necessary documents and forms. As a FSBO seller, you'll have to navigate the paperwork by yourself.

What happens if you don't offer buyer's agent commission?

If you decide not to offer a buyer's agent commission, you may severely restrict your pool of buyers. Further, if you list FSBO, you'll likely receive multiple calls from agents offering to connect you with their buyers...if you pay them a competitive buyer's agent commission (typically 2.58% in Rhode Island).

Can you sell your house for less than a realtor?

While pricing and services vary, discount real estate companies will help you sell your house for less than a traditional realtor. In most cases, you'll still need to offer a competitive buyer's agent commission, but you'll save on listing fees.

Why do you need a warranty on a house in Rhode Island?

Some Rhode Island home sellers opt to offer a home warranty to cover components or systems of a house that may pose a risk of failure for the buyer. Although optional, offering a home warranty is a way to sweeten the deal, attract more buyers and remain competitive during months when the real estate market heats up.

What is a listing agent in Rhode Island?

In the state of Rhode Island, you may also see seller real estate agents being referred to as listing agents.

What is transfer tax in RI?

In RI transfer taxes on real estate are called “realty transfer taxes”. Unlike some other states in which the buyer is responsible for these fees, in RI the seller (i.e. you) must pay the tax at closing. Under Rhode Island statute RIGL 44-25-1 the tax is required for any property sold for over $100. Currently, the realty transfer tax rate in RI is set at $2.30 for every $500 of the sale price. Proof of payment is stamped directly on the deed itself so the recording clerk can verify it was paid.

How long does it take to close a house in Rhode Island?

Dates are very important with regard to the process of selling a home. Generally, the closing date for Rhode Island properties lands around 30 days. However, this date is largely dependent upon the lender and may require an extension.

What is commission paid to seller?

Commission paid out to a seller’s agent is generally calculated as a percentage of the final sale price of the home. The percentage of commission can vary, with lower levels of service usually corresponding to less robust services.

What to do if title issues arise?

In the event that issues surrounding the title or survey emerge, contacting a local real estate attorney is the advised route to obtain counsel on your options and cost of resolution.

Who pays for title insurance in Rhode Island?

1. Title Insurance. By custom, in Rhode Island, the home buyer generally pays for the owner’s and lender’s policy, however, this may be an item up for negotiation. There two types of title insurance policies in Rhode Island, each of which are paid at the time of closing, usually by the buyer of the home include:

Where do you close on a house in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, home closings take place in one location, typically at the office of the title company or an attorney . At this point, all finalized paperwork will be signed by the seller and buyer. Once complete, the keys to the home will be released to the seller (unless an agreement was made to allow the seller more time to finalize their move).

How long does it take to accept a secondary offer in Rhode Island?

Generally, it’s recommended that any home seller in Rhode Island make a counteroffer, unless the first offer is more than satisfactory. If the buyer submits a secondary offer, typically the seller has three days to make a decision to accept or reject the offer.

Is it easy to sell a house in Rhode Island?

Selling a home isn’t easy . It’s a high-stakes, complex transaction and requires a considerable amount of time and expertise to get a good outcome. If you’re looking to sell your Rhode Island home for the best price — and minimize stress along the way — you need to find a top-rated real estate agent in your area.

Do I Really Need a Power of Attorney in Rhode Island?

It is possible you will never need a power of attorney, but you cannot predict accidents or sudden health emergencies that will render you unconscious or unable to communicate for an extended time. If you want to prepare for that possibility, you need a power of attorney.

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Rhode Island Power of Attorney Information

A power of attorney is a legal document that you can use to name another person (called the agent or attorney-in-fact) to act in your place. The person who makes a power of attorney is called the principal.

What is a seller net sheet?

A seller’s net sheet is an organizational worksheet that your agent will fill out to show you how much you’ll pocket from your home sale after factoring in expenses like taxes, your real estate agent’s commission, your remaining mortgage, and escrow fees.

What is a deed of a house?

A deed (not to be confused with the title, which isn’t a physical document but a legal concept that grants someone ownership of the home) is a physical legal document that officially transfers ownership (title) of a house from the seller to the buyer.

How long does it take for an appraisal to come back?

After the appraiser evaluates your home, the appraisal report should come back in less than a week. As the seller, you won’t automatically get a copy of the appraisal report, but you can request one and the lender will have to provide it to you in 30 days time.

What is a listing agreement?

A listing agreement makes the arrangement between you and your real estate agent official and gives your agent the exclusive rights to sell your home within a given time frame. The contract lays out the terms of how the real estate agent can promote your home.

How long is a home inspection report?

Then, the inspector drafts up a home inspection report that spans about 30-50 pages in length (with pictures).

How do you mitigate capital gains taxes on a home sale?

They mitigate the capital gains taxes you owe on your home sale by adding to your adjusted cost basis. Figuring in capital improvements come tax time will be much easier if you’ve kept a record of improvements you made over the course of ownership of the house, so make sure you always hang onto those receipts.

What is a preliminary title report?

A preliminary title report, or in real estate speak a “prelim” is a financial and legal summary document that tells you, the seller, if there’s anything outstanding on your property before you put your house on the market. In other words, it’s a precautionary report.

What do attorneys do before transferring a property title?

Before transferring the property title, attorneys evaluate public records on a property’s history, to uncover any potential liens or other issues that might negatively impact the title for the new owner.

Which states require a real estate attorney to close?

Nebraska: Real estate attorneys are not essential for closing but may be advised by your real estate agent. Nevada: Real estate attorneys are not essential for closing but may be advised by your real estate agent. New Hampshire: New Hampshire requires a licensed attorney to conduct real estate closings.

Why do real estate attorneys help?

Provide peace of mind to all parties. Thanks to their experience and education, real estate attorneys can provide some peace of mind for all parties involved. They help protect clients from legal disputes and streamline the closing process for a smooth sale.

What can an attorney do in a contract dispute?

Attorneys can also act as a mediator between buyers and sellers in a contract dispute. The attorney can look back on the sale documents and provide both parties with an unbiased, legal perspective.

How much does a real estate attorney charge?

However, some attorneys charge a flat fee for their assistance in real estate transactions, and these costs can range from $950 to $5,000. The buyer usually foots the bill for this expense, but they may negotiate for the seller to pay the fees in some instances.

Is a real estate attorney required to close a transaction in Ohio?

Ohio: Real estate attorneys are not essential for closing but may be advised by your real estate agent. Oklahoma: Oklahoma Law requires a real estate attorney to conduct your title examination, but that is only one small aspect of the transaction and will be included as part of your closing services.

Do you need an attorney to close a home sale?

There are a number of laws responsible for regulating real estate transactions, and they vary nationwide. In fact, some states require a licensed real estate attorney conduct the closing of your home sale. Even if you don’t need an attorney, there are a number of complex scenarios in which agents often recommend hiring an attorney.

What is a real estate attorney?

Real estate attorneys help oversee home sales, from the moment the contract is signed through the negotiating period (aptly called the “attorney review”) to closing. A seller’s attorney reviews sales contracts, communicates terms in a professional manner and attends closings to prevent mishaps. Selling a home is a complex process ...

How much does a real estate attorney charge?

How much does a real estate attorney cost? How much you’ll pay for real estate attorney fees depends on your market and how involved they are in the transaction, but they typically charge a flat rate of $800 to $1,200 per transaction. Some attorneys charge hourly, ranging from $150 to $350 per hour.

Why do you need an attorney for real estate?

An attorney helps you protect your investment and assets while ensuring you’re conducting your side of the transaction legally — which can prevent costly missteps. Real estate attorneys are required in many states, but even if you aren’t legally required to use an attorney while selling, it can be a good idea.

What to do if you inherited a home?

An attorney can help you navigate the complexities. Estate sale: If you inherited the home you’re selling, hiring an attorney to sort through ownership documents can ease the burden, which is especially helpful when you’re grieving the loss of a family member.

Who is responsible for underwriting title insurance?

Title company: A representative of the title company is responsible for underwriting the title insurance and transferring the clean title of the home to the buyer.

Do you need an attorney for a closing?

In 21 states and the District of Columbia, attorneys are legally required as part of the closing process. Attorney-required states include: As a best practice, if the other party in your transaction has a lawyer representing them and supporting their best interests, you should too.

Why do you need an attorney when selling a house?

You’re the heir or executor of a property whose owner is now deceased. You’re selling a house with an uncooperative partner. You have judgments or liens on the property.

Why do I need a real estate attorney?

Reasons to hire a real estate attorney even if it’s optional 1 You’re an out-of-town buyer. 2 You’re buying a property that is a short sale or bank-owned. 3 You’re buying a property that is part of an estate sale. 4 You’re buying a commercial property. 5 You’re buying a property that could potentially have some structural issues. 6 You’re buying a property in a problematic area such as a flood zone or areas with adverse conditions (tornado-prone, radon, toxicity levels, etc.).

What is the education required for real estate agents?

As part of agents’ licensing education, they’re taught and tested on real estate contracts used within their state, many of which also require continuing education courses and/or certifications on subjects such as ethics, buyer’s agency, distressed property sales, and more.

Disclose! Disclose! Disclose!

  • A property disclosure will detail any known defects or malfunctions on the home. Failure to do so can lead to legal entanglements and expenses when selling your house in Rhode Island.
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Title

  • The deed to your property designates the legal ownership and must be presented to the buyer for careful review. The deed for your house in Rhode Island must be transferred after the sale to the name of the new owner.
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Occupancy Rider

  • Timing doesn’t always work out and you’ll want to have n place document should detail responsibilities for any rent, utilities or additional costs or repairs, as insurance policies usually do not cover this period. Should you need to stay in the house after the closing date you will need a post-occupancy agreement. Conversely, should the buyer need to be in place prior to the comple…
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Third-Party Financing Clause

  • When you need to sell, you could consider getting a mortgage on your house as another source of financing for your buyer in Rhode Island. Should you do so, your third party financing clause or financing addendum should be attached. In the event your buyer’s traditional mortgage application for the remainder of the financing is denied, you’re protected.
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Promise

  • The promissory note, obtained from the buyer, is a contract written to clearly outline the rights and duties of the parties, which must be signed and dated. For buyers who are purchasing through non-conventional means this is extremely important, as it enables using the seller as the financer, with the property itself acting as the security for the loan. This document should outline the amo…
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Settlement Statement

  • HUD Laws now require very specific details of the transaction to be outlined in a closing or settlement statement. At least one day prior to the closing, the buyer has the right to review this statement, in order that consumers are aware of just what they’re being charged in fees at the closing and in financing interest for the term of the loan. Strict adherence to these laws will help …
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