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Buying or Selling a Home? Your LegalServices Plan Can Help

  • Writer: Heather Asteriou
    Heather Asteriou
  • Jul 29
  • 3 min read
University employee meeting with real estate attorney to review home purchase contract

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. It’s also one of the most legally complex. Between confusing contracts, tight deadlines, and stacks of documents, the process can be overwhelming. 

 

That’s why your University Legal Services Plan can be such a valuable tool. While Provizr doesn’t offer legal advice, we’re here to help you understand how to make the most of this underused benefit—especially when real estate decisions are on the horizon. 

 

What Real Estate Services Are Included? 

If you’re enrolled in the Legal Services Plan, you likely have access to help with a variety of residential real estate matters. Here’s what that could include, along with examples of how University employees commonly use them: 

 

Buying a Home 

Legal review of: 

  • Purchase agreements and contingencies 

  • Sales contracts and closing documents 

Example: You’re buying a new home and the seller’s contract includes several unfamiliar clauses about inspections and financing deadlines. Your attorney explains what each one means and flags language that could be risky. 

 

Selling a Home 

Legal assistance with: 

  • Reviewing listing agreements 

  • Understanding disclosure requirements 

  • Reviewing and responding to buyer offers 

Example: You receive an offer on your home with a clause that says the buyer can back out for any reason. Your attorney highlights this red flag and helps you counter with stronger terms. 

 

Refinancing Your Mortgage 

Help reviewing: 

  • Refinance documents 

  • Loan disclosures and closing fees 

Example: You’re refinancing to get a better interest rate but aren’t sure if there are hidden costs. Your attorney helps you review the loan terms and confirms there are no prepayment penalties or balloon payments. 

 

Deed or Title Transfers 

Support for: 

  • Transferring property ownership 

  • Adding or removing someone from a title 

Example: After a divorce, you want to remove your ex-spouse from the home title. Your plan covers preparing and filing the deed properly, avoiding delays or extra filing fees. 

 

Why Legal Help Matters 

Real estate transactions move fast, and mistakes can cost thousands. Without legal guidance, it’s easy to sign something you don’t fully understand or miss details that delay closing. 

 

Having an attorney involved early helps you: 

  • Understand what you’re signing 

  • Spot legal risks or hidden fees 

  • Feel confident in your decisions 

 

Best of all, your Legal Services Plan covers these reviews with no hourly rates or surprise charges, saving you money at one of life’s most expensive moments. 

 

Most People Don’t Realize This Benefit Exists 

Many University employees enroll in the Legal Services Plan during Open Enrollment and forget about it. But when life changes—especially something as big as a home purchase or sale—this benefit can be a game-changer. It offers clarity, protection, and peace of mind, all at no additional cost beyond your monthly premium. 

 

Know What’s Not Covered 

There are a few things your plan generally won’t include: 

  • Commercial or investment property transactions 

  • Landlord or tenant disputes 

  • Transactions that started before you enrolled 

It’s a good idea to review your plan booklet or call the provider for specific details based on your situation. 

 

How to Use the Plan Effectively 

If you’re planning a move, refinance, or ownership change, follow these steps: 

  1. Confirm Enrollment – Check your benefits portal to verify you’re enrolled in the Legal Services Plan. 

  2. Reach Out Early – Contact the provider as soon as you begin the process, not at the last minute. 

  3. Submit Documents for Review – Give your attorney time to review contracts, loan documents, or deeds before closing day. 

This simple preparation can help you avoid stress and unexpected costs. 

 

Why This Support Matters 

Buying, selling, or refinancing a home is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming. Knowing you have legal support available makes the entire process smoother, safer, and more manageable. Your Legal Services Plan gives you access to real estate attorneys who can help you understand the fine print and protect your best interests—without draining your wallet. 

 

Missed the last article? 

 

Coming up next: 

Lesser-Known Legal Services You Didn’t Know Were Covered 

 
 

Provizr, LLC is a registered investment adviser in the State of Michigan and separate entity from Fidelity & TIAA. The advisers may not transact business in states where it is not appropriately registered, excluded or exempted from registration. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or investment advisory services. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed. Be sure to consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein.  The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Some of this material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named representative, broker - dealer, state - or SEC - registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

 

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