Why You Should Hire a Real Estate Lawyer
October 1, 2021

The decision to buy or sell real estate is rarely one to take lightly. It may be one of the most significant financial transactions you will make in your lifetime. When you’re planning on making such a substantial investment, we recommend you consult with an attorney experienced in all facets of real estate transactions early in the process, before finalizing any purchase or sales agreement.  Located in Middlebury, Vermont, we are knowledgeable about real estate transactions, and all other aspects of real estate law, including title disputes, zoning issues, ownership disputes, partition, and other complications that may arise. 

 

At Deppman Law PLC, our team is experienced in real estate matters, and represents clients in the purchase and/or sale of Vermont homes and commercial properties.  We also represent clients in cases involving foreclosures, evictions, partitions, title disputes, boundary disputes, other landlord-tenant disputes, and homeowners’ association issues. Benj and Lesley Deppman prepare and review contracts, negotiate terms favorable to our clients, and ensure your rights and best interests are protected every step of the way.

 

Do I Need a Middlebury Real Estate Attorney?

 

Despite our recommendation, above, in home sales and purchases, a real estate lawyer may not come into the picture until well into the process, after both parties have signed a purchase and sale agreement.  While it is not a legal requirement to work with a real estate attorney in Vermont, doing so can save you significant time, money, and stress. Real estate transactions are complicated.  Title searches and title insurance are unique to real estate.  Preparing a deed constitutes the practice of law in Vermont.  Also, there are a lot of technical tax forms and certifications that may be included in a transaction, so the vast majority of people find it advantageous to hire a lawyer to assist them through the transaction.


Even in seemingly-straightforward real estate transactions, minor errors and unintentional oversights can easily lead to costly mistakes that could have been anticipated — and avoided — by having an attorney by your side. Although not all transactions are the same, Deppman Law offers many services depending upon your needs.  We can:

  • Review your contract terms to ensure that they are fair and protect your best interests;
  • Perform a title search to determine if there are easements, covenants, liens or other encumbrances attached to the title; 
  • Issue title insurance as needed or requested;
  • Resolve title issues, often by working with the other party’s attorney;
  • Work with the lender (if applicable) to make sure their requirements are satisfied;
  • Form a business entity for you to utilize in taking title to the property; and,
  • Represent you at closing


We recommend you have a real estate attorney by your side for any type of real estate transaction. 

 

Buyers should be represented by a VT Real Estate Attorney

 

If you are a buyer involved in a real estate transaction, you should not move forward without legal representation. There are many types of real estate transactions, including purchases of:

  • Bank-owned properties;
  • Multi-family properties; 
  • Operating farms;
  • Conserved properties or properties enrolled in Vermont’s “Current Use” property tax program;
  • Residential real estate in a new subdivision with multiple permits;
  • Condominiums;
  • Properties in common interest communities;
  • Properties involved in foreclosure or requiring a short sale;
  • Properties in Vermont when you are from out of state;
  • Properties with structural issues;
  • Properties at estate sales;
  • Commercial properties; and
  • Properties with area-specific problems, such as high radon levels, or those that are located in a flood zone. 


Further, real estate transactions include many technical items, and a knowledgeable attorney will help you navigate them (e.g., warranty deed, quit claim deed, option to purchase, right of first refusal, easement, mortgagor, mortgagee, rights of way, covenants, powers of attorney, prorations, etc.).  Also, transactions involve Vermont specific taxes (real estate withholding, transfer tax, land gains tax) and federal taxes (e.g., capital gains, FIRPTA).  Certain transactions require certain disclosures, and others do not (e.g., compliance with Vermont’s carbon monoxide and smoke detector law, compliance with Vermont’s “public buildings” laws, etc.).  The Buyer’s attorney typically acts as settlement agent, and prepares the settlement statement or Closing Disclosure which itemizes all of the financial aspects of the transaction.


Sellers should be represented by a VT Real Estate Attorney

 

Sellers should retain the services of a real estate attorney when engaged in a real estate transaction.  The Seller’s attorney will help navigate the sale of property:

  • That is jointly owned, when the joint owner is uncooperative; 
  • With structural issues; 
  • With liens or judgments against it;
  • With area-specific issues, such as radon;
  • In preparing the deed, transfer tax return, required disclosures, and other tax, transfer or title clearing documents;
  • To which the Seller is an executor, agent under power of attorney, guardian, or other fiduciary. 


The Seller’s lawyer typically prepares the deed, transfer tax return, and other documents that may be needed (affidavits, certifications, certificates, powers of attorney, etc.).  The Seller’s attorney also obtains the payoff statement for any mortgage debt or lien being paid off, and makes sure a certificate of occupancy or certificate of zoning compliance is issued if the transaction requires one.  If the title search performed for the Buyer reveals a title issue, the Seller’s attorney typically works on resolving the title issue. 

 

Choosing a Real Estate Lawyer

 

Given the technical issues and the substantial assets at risk, it’s crucial to choose an experienced real estate lawyer with a good reputation.  Also, you should feel comfortable with your lawyer. Real estate law is constantly evolving, so it’s important not to hire an attorney who just dabbles in the area. 


Use the initial consultation as an interview. Ask the attorney about real estate law, how many cases they’ve handled similar to yours, how they handle communication, and what they charge for legal services. 


In addition to gathering important information and determining if the lawyer has the experience and knowledge to protect your best interests, this is also a great opportunity to gauge whether you like working with this particular individual. After all, selling and purchasing real estate can be a very personal, even emotional process; having a trusted lawyer by your side can make all the difference!   

 

Contact Deppman Law PLC Today

 

Whether you are buying a piece of bare land, a large operating farm, a commercial property, a modest condo or a multimillion Dollar residence, the legal team at Deppman Law can help. We will review your unique circumstances to ensure that your best interests are protected throughout the process.


Contact Benj or Lesley today at 802-388-6337 for a confidential consultation about your case.

The 5 Essential Estate Planning Documents Every Vermonter Should Have

June 20, 2025
Estate planning may sound like something only the wealthy or elderly need to worry about, but in truth, it’s an essential part of life planning for every adult—regardless of age, wealth, or family structure. Whether you're a small business owner in Montpelier, a retiree in Middlebury, or a young parent in Burlington, having a clear and legally sound estate plan can protect your loved ones, preserve your assets, and provide peace of mind. In Vermont, as in most states, there are five core documents that form the foundation of a comprehensive estate plan. Each plays a specific role in ensuring your wishes are respected and your affairs are handled according to your preferences—both during your lifetime and after your death. Here’s a closer look at the five essential estate planning documents every Vermonter should have: 1. Last Will and Testament A will is the cornerstone of any estate plan. It outlines how you want your assets to be distributed after your death and names an executor to manage your estate. If you have minor children, your will is also the document where you nominate a guardian for them. Without a will, your estate will be distributed according to Vermont’s intestacy laws—which may not reflect your wishes. This process can be time-consuming, emotionally draining for your family, and lead to unintended outcomes. Even if your estate is modest, a will ensures clarity and can help your loved ones avoid unnecessary legal complications during an already difficult time. 2. Durable Power of Attorney A durable power of attorney (POA) allows you to name someone to handle your financial and legal affairs if you become incapacitated. This could include paying your bills, managing investments, filing taxes, or making other important decisions on your behalf. In Vermont, a POA remains in effect even if you become mentally or physically unable to manage your own affairs—hence the term durable. Without a POA, your loved ones may have to go through a costly and time-consuming court process to gain the authority to act on your behalf. Choosing a trusted agent now can spare your family considerable stress later. 3. Advance Directive for Health Care Also known as a health care proxy or medical power of attorney, an advance directive allows you to appoint someone to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to do so yourself. This includes decisions about life-sustaining treatments, organ donation, and end-of-life care. Vermont has a specific form for advance directives, and completing one ensures your health care wishes are known and legally binding. Without this document, important medical decisions may fall to someone who doesn’t know your preferences—or disagreements among family members could create unnecessary tension. 4. HIPAA Authorization The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) protects the privacy of your medical records, but it can also make it difficult for loved ones to access information in an emergency. A HIPAA authorization allows you to name individuals who can access your medical records and communicate with your doctors. This is especially important if you have multiple family members who may need to coordinate your care or advocate on your behalf. Without this document, your loved ones may be left in the dark at a time when fast, informed decisions are critical. 5. Revocable Living Trust (Optional, But Strongly Recommended) While not every Vermonter needs a revocable living trust, it can be a powerful tool—especially if you own real estate, have a blended family, or want to avoid probate. A revocable living trust allows you to transfer ownership of your assets into a trust during your lifetime, with instructions for how they should be managed and distributed. You retain control of the assets while you're alive, and after your death, they can be distributed without going through the Vermont probate process. A trust also provides greater privacy, flexibility, and control, and can be particularly helpful for managing out-of-state property or planning for incapacity. Take Control of Your Legacy Estate planning isn’t just about preparing for the unexpected—it’s about making intentional decisions that protect your family, safeguard your assets, and reflect your values. At Deppman Law PLC, we help individuals and families throughout Vermont create customized estate plans that meet their specific needs—no matter how simple or complex. Whether you’re starting from scratch or need to update existing documents, we’re here to guide you through every step with care and clarity. Contact Benj or Lesley today to schedule a consultation and begin building your estate plan with confidence.

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