North Carolina is an attorney state for real estate closings, and in a typical residential purchase the buyer chooses the closing attorney.
What the closing attorney does
The closing attorney searches title, works with your lender, prepares or reviews closing documents, collects and disburses funds and records the deed and deed of trust. Many attorneys also hold the earnest money in their trust account.
How to choose
Ask your broker and lender for recommendations, and compare responsiveness and fees. Choose early, ideally right after your offer is accepted, so the title search and loan coordination can start.
Who represents whom
The closing attorney often represents the buyer and lender. Sellers may hire their own attorney to prepare the deed or review documents. If you have legal questions about your contract, ask the attorney who represents you.
Protect your money
Before wiring funds, call your closing attorney at a phone number you’ve verified independently. Never rely on wiring instructions that arrive by email.
This is general information, not legal advice. Contract forms and rules change, so ask your broker or a real estate attorney about your situation.