Pasadena Law Firm Assists Owners, Contractors, Lenders and Other Parties in Real Estate Matters

Experienced California attorney effectively safeguards clients’ interests

At the Law Offices of James W. Bates A Professional Corporation, attorney Bates has decades of experience successfully resolving legal issues for owners, developers, contractors, subcontractors, mortgage lenders, mortgage servicers and banks in California. Our Pasadena law office provides skilled guidance for property transactions, real estate litigation and construction issues involving mechanics’ lien litigation and construction defects. Whether your institution needs assistance preparing mortgage documents, resolving a construction dispute, handling a regulatory compliance matter or managing a dispute with a borrower or other party, you can trust the firm for sound counsel.

Assisting with real estate transactions

Attorney James Bates helps lenders, buyers and sellers with transactional matters in the purchase and sale of commercial and residential real estate. I offer assistance with the following:

• Reviewing loan documents
• Preparing and reviewing purchase and sales agreements
• Negotiating sales contracts and agreements
• Resolving lien and title issues
• Negotiating contracts and agreements
• Analyzing transactions to prevent possible problems
• Overseeing real estate closings

Whatever legal concern may arise during a property transaction, I have the extensive real estate law experience necessary to effectively handle it.

Guidance in maintaining regulatory compliance

Financial institutions that violate fair lending laws and other regulations meant to protect real estate consumers can face stiff consequences. Fines and other penalties can damage the reputations and bottom lines of mortgage lenders. I work closely with financial institutions to help them understand changing laws and develop policies and procedures that foster compliance with all applicable standards.

Advising in borrower disputes

When borrowers default on mortgage loans and are faced with possible foreclosure, they may use various defenses to try and keep their property. One common tactic is to accuse the lender or loan servicer of making a mistake or utilizing improper methods when negotiating or enforcing the loan terms. Specific claims include the following:

• The lender misapplied their mortgage payments
• Insurance or escrow payments were increased in error, or the servicer did not pay impounded property taxes on time
• The lender did not inform them about possible loss mitigation options that may be available to them to avoid foreclosure
• The bank unfairly denied their request for a loan modification
• The lender did not properly notify the property owner that they were in default on their loan

Attorney Bates can help when your institution is engaged in a dispute with a borrower or is involved in pre-foreclosure or foreclosure actions. He will investigate all the facts of the situation, including reviewing the steps your institution took to ensure compliance with consumer protection laws. He will work to negotiate or litigate a solution, depending upon the totality of the circumstances.

Representing brokers accused of professional malpractice

The Consumer Fraud Act applies to real estate agents and brokers as well as other professionals. While all agents are licensed and have an understanding of the relevant laws, issues can still arise that put their license in jeopardy. If you are a broker being sued for alleged malpractice, such as making a false or deceptive statement, our firm will represent you.

Contact a well-informed real estate attorney for mortgage lenders today

At the Law Offices of James W. Bates A Professional Corporation, located in Pasadena, attorney Bates advises property owners, developers, bank, brokers and other parties throughout Southern California on real estate transactions, regulatory compliance and disputes with borrowers. To schedule a consultation, call my law firm at 818-248-1911 or contact me online.