Real-estate law — frequently asked questions

Yes, and here is why. A real-estate attorney reviews every clause of the purchase agreement, conducts thorough title searches to uncover liens or encumbrances, and ensures the transaction complies with local recording and disclosure requirements. Without legal review, buyers risk inheriting unresolved debts, boundary disputes, or zoning violations that can cost far more than attorney fees. In both Hong Kong and California, property law is dense and jurisdiction-specific, so having an experienced advocate on your side is one of the smartest investments you can make during a transaction.

Our fees vary based on the nature and complexity of your matter. For straightforward residential closings, we often offer a flat fee so you know exactly what to expect. Commercial transactions, development projects, and litigation are generally billed on an hourly basis, with detailed monthly statements. We always provide a written fee estimate before engagement, and we are happy to discuss payment plans for qualifying clients. Transparency is central to how we operate — there are no hidden charges or surprise invoices.

Absolutely. Our team regularly advises clients who hold property in both Hong Kong and California, or who are acquiring assets across borders. We coordinate with local counsel where necessary, navigate foreign-ownership restrictions, and address international tax implications — including withholding obligations under FIRPTA for non-resident sellers in the United States. Our dual-jurisdiction experience means fewer hand-offs, faster timelines, and a single point of contact for complex multinational transactions.

A title search examines public records to verify the legal ownership of a property and to identify any claims, liens, easements, or restrictions that could affect your rights as a buyer. It is a critical step before closing because it protects you from purchasing a property with unresolved debts or contested ownership. If issues surface during the search, our attorneys work to resolve them — whether that means negotiating lien releases, obtaining affidavits, or recommending title insurance to cover residual risks.

In California, a standard residential closing takes approximately 30 to 45 days from the date the purchase agreement is fully executed. In Hong Kong, the timeline depends on whether the property is a primary sale from a developer or a secondary market transaction, but completion typically occurs within four to eight weeks after the preliminary agreement is signed. Delays can arise from financing contingencies, inspection findings, or title issues, which is why having legal counsel who monitors deadlines closely is essential to keeping the process on track.

Start by documenting everything — keep copies of your lease, all written communications, photographs of the property condition, and records of any payments made. Then contact us for a consultation. Many landlord-tenant disputes can be resolved through negotiation or mediation without going to court, saving both time and money. If litigation becomes necessary, we represent both landlords and tenants and will advise you honestly about the strength of your case and the likely outcomes before you commit to any course of action.

Yes. We offer a complimentary 30-minute initial consultation for new clients. During this session, we listen to the details of your situation, provide a preliminary assessment of your legal options, and outline the next steps along with an honest estimate of costs. There is no obligation to retain us after the consultation — our goal is to ensure you have the information you need to make an informed decision about how to proceed.