Unlocking Real Estate Success with Cornerstone Insights

At Cornerstone, we are dedicated to sharing invaluable insights to elevate your real estate knowledge and enhance your deals. Our commitment extends to bringing in both in-house and external experts to shed light on crucial issues for owners, developers, lenders, investors, and other professionals contributing to the realization of the American Dream.

In the current real estate landscape, the age-old adage “Cash is King” is reverberating, particularly in the wake of rising interest rates. The all-cash transaction has resurged, gaining popularity, especially among foreign investors. If you are contemplating an all-cash real estate purchase, securing the right experienced closing team is not just advisable; it’s a necessity.

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While all-cash foreign transactions are not unprecedented, they deviate from the conventional method of real estate acquisition in New York. For foreign investors closing deals from different countries, meticulous planning and coordination are imperative. Here’s what you need to know, guided by Cornerstone’s expertise:

Engage a Title Insurance Company:

Title insurance holds paramount importance in safeguarding against any potential title defects. Beyond securing title insurance, your chosen title company serves as a pivotal hub and advisor throughout the closing process.

Find a Real Estate Attorney:

In the intricate realm of New York real estate transactions, enlist the services of a specialized real estate attorney. They will expertly navigate the legal aspects, ensuring the preparation and execution of all necessary documents. With Cornerstone’s extensive experience—having successfully closed tens of thousands of deals—we can offer valuable referrals if needed.

Open a U.S. Bank Account:

To facilitate the seamless handling of transaction funds, securing a U.S. bank account is essential. Contact a New York-based bank to initiate the account opening process, ensuring compliance with requirements for non-resident account holders. For those lacking a Social Security Number, obtaining an ITIN is often a requisite for tax purposes in real estate transactions.

Appointment of a Representative:

Deliberate on appointing a representative or power of attorney who can act on your behalf in the U.S. This designated individual plays a crucial role in signing documents, attending the closing, and managing various transaction aspects.

Schedule the Closing:

Collaborate with your title company and real estate attorney to strategically schedule the closing. This pivotal meeting is where all involved parties sign necessary documents, culminating in the official transfer of ownership.
Review and Sign Documents:

Your attorney will promptly provide the requisite documents for your careful review and signature. These may include the purchase agreement, closing statement, and other legal documents crucial to the transaction.

Attend the Closing or Use a Power of Attorney:

Whenever feasible, consider attending the closing in person. Alternatively, ensure that your appointed representative or power of attorney is present to sign documents on your behalf, guaranteeing a seamless process.

Recording and Transfer of Ownership:

Post-closing, your title company takes charge of recording the deed with the appropriate county office, effectively finalizing the transfer of ownership.

Remember that real estate transactions can be complex, and it’s crucial to work closely with professionals to navigate the process smoothly. The information provided here is general in nature, and specific details may vary based on the circumstances of your transaction.

If you have any questions about closing real estate transactions or if you would like to discuss an upcoming or prospective transaction, please contact us.