Florida Real Estate Law FAQs – St. Augustine Real Estate Attorneys

Get Answers From Real Estate Attorneys Who Cover All Aspects of Florida Property Law

Real estate deals in Florida can involve complex legal, financial, and logistical issues—especially in the Florida market. At St. Johns Law Group, St. Augustine’s largest law firm, our attorneys provide clear answers to your most pressing real estate questions. Below, you’ll find FAQs linked directly to our in-depth service pages, so you can explore the topics that matter most to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need a lawyer to buy or sell real estate in Florida?

It’s not legally required—but highly recommended. A real estate attorney can help you with contract drafting, title clearance, closings, and dispute prevention.

• For streamlined purchase transactions, see our comprehensive Closings & Title Services page.

• For FSBO sellers, get tailored guidance on our FSBO Legal Support page.

2. What’s the difference between an agent and an attorney?

Agents handle marketing and negotiations. Attorneys provide legal guidance, enforce contracts, resolve title issues, and represent you in disputes.

• Learn more about closing oversight through our Contract Review & Closing Attorney page.

• If litigation is needed, explore help on our Real Estate Litigation Attorney page.

3. What should I do if a title problem arises?

If a title defect is found before closing, we resolve it with the title company. If it’s discovered later, we can pursue quiet title actions or insurance claims.

• Protect your ownership: see Quiet Title Attorneys.

• For issues linked to latent defects, visit Hidden Defects & Johnson v. Davis.

4. Can a real estate contract be canceled after it’s signed?

Possibly—many contracts include inspection or financing contingencies. Once these expire, cancellation depends on contract terms.

• See a breakdown of conditions and protections on our Closings & Title Services page.

5. What is a 1031 Exchange and how can it help me?

A 1031 Exchange allows deferring capital gains taxes by reinvesting sale proceeds into like-kind property. Our attorneys ensure every step meets IRS rules.

• Dive into our expertise on 1031s via the Investor & 1031 Exchange page.

6. What are common buyer–seller disputes in Florida?

Issues often involve nondisclosure, closing failures, inspection disagreements, or last-minute backouts.

• For legal support, visit our Real Estate Litigation Attorney page.

7. How can FSBO sellers stay protected?

Without realtor oversight, FSBO sellers face contract, disclosure, and title risks—but attorneys can guide and safeguard every step.

• Learn how in our dedicated FSBO Attorney page.

8. Can someone living out of state buy property in Florida?

Yes—remote buyers can rely on us for closing coordination, POA setup, and title services.

• Step-by-step guidance is available through our Closings & Title Services page.

9. What is a quiet title action?

It’s a lawsuit that clears ownership disputes—necessary for resolving liens, heir claims, or messy title records.

• Visit our Quiet Title Attorneys page for details.

10. Why do I need title insurance?

It protects you from financial loss due to title defects, even after closing. We review policies and assist with claims as needed.

Serving Clients Across Northeast Florida

We assist clients throughout the region, including:

• St. Johns County: St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, Silverleaf

• Flagler County: Palm Coast, Flagler Beach

• Duval County: Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach, San Marco

• Clay & Putnam Counties: Fleming Island, Palatka

• Southern Georgia: Select cross-border real estate matters

Need Help with a Real Estate Matter?

Call 904-495-0400 or fill out our Contact Form to speak with an experienced attorney.

From closings and contract drafting to FSBO sales, 1031 exchanges, litigation, and title actions—St. Johns Law Group provides the local expertise and personalized counsel you need for every stage of your real estate journey.