Guide to Residential Purchase and Sale Representation in Troy
Buying or selling a home in Troy requires careful attention to contracts, disclosures, timelines, and local practices. At Jay Johnson Law Firm, we provide clear, practical legal guidance throughout the transaction to help clients understand their rights and options. From reviewing purchase agreements to negotiating contingencies and coordinating with lenders and title companies, our approach focuses on protecting your financial interests and keeping the process moving. We serve residents of Obion County and surrounding areas, and we make it easy to reach us at 731-206-9700 to discuss your specific needs and next steps.
Real estate transactions often include complex documents and deadlines that can affect your ownership and finances for years to come. Our role is to analyze contract terms, clarify obligations, and identify potential risks before you are bound to a transaction. Whether this is your first home, an investment property, or a sale due to life changes, we provide a steady legal resource to answer questions, coordinate with other professionals, and attend closing when needed. We aim to reduce uncertainty and help clients make informed decisions at every stage of buying or selling a residence.
Why Legal Guidance Matters for Residential Transactions
Legal review and representation in a residential real estate transaction can prevent costly mistakes, enforce contract terms, and resolve disputes before they escalate. Having a lawyer review contingencies, inspection provisions, title commitments, and closing adjustments ensures that the agreement aligns with your objectives and local law. Representation also helps streamline communication among buyer, seller, lender, inspector, and title company, reducing delays and surprises. When disputes arise—over defects, financing, or closing obligations—professional legal advocacy seeks to protect your financial interests and secure a timely resolution without unnecessary disruption.
About Jay Johnson Law Firm’s Real Estate Services
Jay Johnson Law Firm serves Troy and Obion County with practical legal services for residential purchases and sales. Our team brings years of transactional experience handling purchase agreements, seller disclosure review, title issues, and closing coordination for clients across a range of situations. We prioritize clear communication, timely document review, and careful attention to deadlines so clients understand each stage of the transaction. Clients appreciate our local knowledge of Tennessee real estate practices, our responsiveness by phone at 731-206-9700, and our commitment to protecting their financial and property interests at every step.
What Residential Purchase and Sale Representation Covers
Representation for residential purchases and sales includes reviewing and negotiating purchase agreements, advising on inspection and financing contingencies, examining title commitments, and coordinating closing details with the other parties. Legal counsel can help draft contract addenda, assess seller disclosures for known issues, and negotiate solutions when negotiations stall. For buyers, careful review can identify title defects or lien issues that require correction before closing. For sellers, representation helps ensure disclosures are accurate and that the closing proceeds smoothly while protecting net proceeds and timelines.
Additional matters handled during residential transactions may include resolving boundary or survey questions, assisting with escrow and closing statements, and addressing post-closing concerns such as outstanding utility charges or prorations. When financing is involved, counsel coordinates with lenders to confirm the conditions for funding are met. In cases where a sale is related to probate, divorce, or estate matters, we work with the client’s other advisers to integrate the real estate steps into the larger legal process so that transfers occur properly under Tennessee law.
Key Definitions and How They Apply to Your Transaction
Understanding common terms like purchase agreement, title commitment, contingency, prorations, and closing disclosure helps clients make informed choices. A purchase agreement outlines sale terms and deadlines, while contingencies protect parties until inspections, financing, or appraisal conditions are satisfied. A title commitment summarizes the current ownership record and any encumbrances that must be cleared. Prorations allocate property taxes and utilities between buyer and seller. Having a lawyer explain these concepts in plain language reduces confusion and helps clients act confidently during negotiations and closing.
Core Elements and Typical Steps in a Residential Transaction
A typical residential transaction begins with an accepted offer and moves through inspections, title review, financing, and closing. Inspections and disclosure review may prompt repair negotiations or price adjustments. Title review identifies mortgages, judgments, or easements that require resolution. Financing contingencies ensure the buyer can obtain funds under agreed terms, and the closing brings documents, funds, and title transfer together. Timely document exchange and coordination among the parties keep the transaction on track, and legal review at each stage helps avoid last-minute issues that can derail a closing.
Glossary of Important Real Estate Terms
This glossary highlights terms you are likely to encounter during a residential sale or purchase in Tennessee. Familiarity with these items helps you follow the transaction timeline and recognize responsibilities and risks. If a document includes unfamiliar language, seek clarification so you understand obligations before signing. The glossary below is a starting point and does not replace individualized legal advice specific to your transaction or property.
Purchase Agreement
A purchase agreement is the written contract setting the terms of sale between buyer and seller, including price, closing date, contingencies, and any seller concessions. It establishes the legal obligations of both parties and specifies deadlines for inspections, financing approval, and other conditions. The agreement may include addenda for disclosures, appliances, or specific property conditions. Careful review ensures that contingencies are drafted to protect the client and that timelines are realistic so both sides can meet contractual obligations without unintended breaches.
Title Commitment
A title commitment is a preliminary report from a title insurer that outlines the current state of the property’s title and lists requirements to achieve insurable title at closing. It identifies existing liens, mortgages, easements, and recorded interests that could affect ownership. The commitment also specifies actions, such as payoffs or releases, needed before a title policy can be issued. Reviewing the title commitment early in the process allows time to address encumbrances so the transfer of ownership is completed without unexpected surprises at closing.
Contingency
A contingency is a condition included in the contract that must be satisfied for the transaction to proceed, such as a satisfactory inspection, acceptable financing, or a clean title. Contingencies protect the parties by permitting contract termination or renegotiation if the condition is not met within the specified timeframe. Properly drafted contingencies include clear deadlines, standards for acceptance or rejection, and procedures for resolving disagreements. Legal review helps ensure contingencies are appropriately tailored to the situation and do not leave the client exposed to unintended obligations.
Proration and Closing Adjustments
Prorations allocate costs like property taxes, utilities, and prepaid items between buyer and seller based on the closing date. Closing adjustments reconcile these expenses so each party pays a fair share for the period they owned the property. The closing statement lists prorations and other credits or debits affecting the final funds due at closing. Legal review of the settlement statement confirms the accuracy of prorations and helps identify any discrepancies that should be corrected before funds are exchanged and title transfers.
Limited Review vs. Comprehensive Representation
Clients can choose a limited document review or fuller representation during a residential transaction. A limited review typically involves examining the purchase agreement and providing advice or suggested edits, while comprehensive representation includes ongoing negotiation, title and disclosure review, coordination with lenders, and attendance at closing. The optimal choice depends on the transaction’s complexity, the client’s familiarity with real estate processes, and risk tolerance. We help clients understand the trade-offs so they can select the level of legal involvement that aligns with their needs and budget.
When a Limited Review May Be Appropriate:
Simple Transactions with Clear Terms
A limited review can be suitable when both parties agree on straightforward terms and the property has an uncomplicated title history, such as a sale without liens, disputes, or unusual easements. If the buyer is paying cash or already has preapproval and the seller’s disclosures are clear, a focused contract review and brief advice may cover the most common concerns. Even in simple deals, professional review can identify wording that affects deadlines or remedies, helping clients avoid inadvertent obligations before they commit to the transaction.
Low-Risk Transactions with Familiar Parties
Limited services may also be appropriate where parties have prior experience with similar transactions or when working with a trusted local title company that will handle standard closing tasks. In such cases, clients may only need a lawyer to confirm that the purchase agreement reflects the negotiated deal and that essential contingencies are present. This approach can reduce legal costs while still providing targeted protection for common contractual pitfalls and ensuring that basic legal standards are met before proceeding to closing.
Benefits of Full-Service Representation in Complex Situations:
When Title or Disclosure Issues Arise
Comprehensive representation is advisable if the title commitment reveals liens, judgments, or unresolved ownership questions that require negotiation or corrective deeds before closing. Similarly, if seller disclosures reveal structural issues, water damage, or boundary disputes, a full-service approach helps coordinate investigations, negotiate repairs or credits, and document agreements so liability is clear. This level of involvement protects the client from assuming unexpected obligations and helps ensure the transaction addresses underlying problems prior to transfer of ownership.
When Financing, Contingencies, or Deadlines Are Tight
If financing approvals depend on complex lender conditions, or if contingencies have short timeframes, comprehensive legal involvement ensures deadlines are met and conditions are satisfied in a coordinated manner. Legal counsel communicates with lenders, title companies, and other parties to resolve last-minute issues, prepares necessary addenda, and attends closing so documents and funds are handled correctly. This reduces the risk of delays or failed closings that can result in financial loss or contract disputes for buyers and sellers.
Advantages of Full Transaction Representation
A comprehensive approach helps manage risk by addressing title matters, ensuring accurate seller disclosures, negotiating repairs or credits, and coordinating financing and closing tasks. Full representation also provides continuity of counsel through each phase, so advice reflects the entire transaction rather than isolated reviews. This can prevent inconsistencies between contract terms and closing documents and reduces the chance of post-closing disputes. Senior members of the firm are available to discuss options and support decision-making throughout the process.
Clients who choose comprehensive representation often benefit from improved negotiation outcomes, quicker resolution of issues, and a smoother closing with fewer surprises. Legal involvement helps document agreements clearly, preserving remedies if a dispute later arises. For sellers, it safeguards net proceeds and protects against inadvertent breaches. For buyers, it helps ensure adequate protections for inspections, financing, and title. Overall, full-service representation aims to provide confidence that the transaction has been handled with thorough legal attention and careful coordination.
Early Identification and Resolution of Title Issues
Comprehensive representation typically includes an early review of the title commitment to identify encumbrances that could prevent a clean transfer. Addressing these matters early allows time to negotiate payoffs, obtain releases, or prepare corrective documents. Early resolution minimizes last-minute delays at closing and reduces the risk of unexpected costs. By coordinating with the title company and lienholders, legal counsel helps ensure that the property will convey with clear title and that appropriate insurance protections are in place to protect the new owner against future claims.
Clear Documentation of Agreements and Remedies
Full representation ensures that negotiated changes, repair agreements, and credits are memorialized in writing and incorporated into the contract or closing documents. Clear documentation reduces the risk of misunderstandings and provides a basis for enforcing obligations if disputes arise. This also includes preparing closing statements and reviewing settlement figures to verify accurate prorations and fees. Thorough documentation supports a smoother transfer and provides clients with the records needed to protect their interests after the sale is complete.
Practice Areas
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Practical Tips for Smooth Residential Transactions
Start Legal Review Early
Initiating legal review as soon as an offer is accepted helps identify title issues, disclosure concerns, or contractual provisions that may need revision. Early involvement prevents last-minute rushes before closing and gives time to negotiate repairs, secure releases, or adjust timelines. By addressing potential obstacles up front, clients reduce the risk of delays and unexpected costs. A proactive approach to legal review also improves communication among lender, title company, and agents so the closing can proceed efficiently and with fewer surprises for all parties.
Clarify Inspection and Financing Deadlines
Review Closing Documents Carefully
Carefully review the closing statement, deed, and any payoff figures before the scheduled closing to confirm accuracy of prorations, fees, and seller payoffs. Discrepancies in the settlement figures can delay funding or lead to unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. If questions arise, raise them promptly with the title company and the other side so adjustments can be made before funds transfer. Legal involvement at this stage helps ensure documents represent the agreed terms and that closing proceeds are distributed according to the contract.
Reasons to Hire Legal Representation for a Home Sale or Purchase
Legal representation helps protect your financial investment by ensuring contract terms reflect the negotiated deal, clarifying obligations for inspections and repairs, and verifying clear title transfer. For buyers, legal review can uncover title defects, unpaid liens, or unresolved encroachments that require correction before closing. For sellers, counsel helps ensure disclosures are accurate and that proceeds are handled properly at closing. Representation also helps avoid misunderstandings that can lead to litigation or costly delays after closing, providing peace of mind during an important life transaction.
Legal involvement can also speed resolution when issues arise by coordinating with lenders, title companies, and other professionals to meet contractual deadlines. Whether negotiating credits, drafting corrective deeds, or addressing post-closing disputes, counsel provides a steady resource to protect your rights. This is especially valuable when transactions intersect with other legal matters, such as probate, divorce, or estate settlements. Overall, hiring legal representation helps ensure the transaction is carried out correctly and that any problems are handled in a timely, effective manner.
Situations That Often Require Legal Assistance
Common circumstances that benefit from legal assistance include title defects or liens, incomplete seller disclosures, boundary disputes revealed by surveys, financing contingencies with strict timelines, and closings that require payoff of multiple encumbrances. Other situations include transactions involving estate or probate property, inherited real estate, or properties subject to special easements or restrictions. When any of these issues arise, having legal representation helps navigate the necessary corrections, negotiations, or court filings to allow the transaction to proceed lawfully and with minimized risk.
Title Problems or Outstanding Liens
If the title commitment reveals outstanding liens, judgments, or unresolved mortgages, legal assistance can coordinate with lienholders to obtain payoffs or releases before closing. Addressing these issues early prevents last-minute surprises and ensures the buyer receives insurable title. Counsel may assist in preparing corrective documents or negotiating escrow arrangements when liens cannot be resolved immediately. Taking proactive steps reduces the risk of a failed closing and limits potential liability for both buyer and seller once funds and ownership change hands.
Complicated Seller Disclosures or Property Condition Issues
When disclosures reveal previous damage, structural concerns, or environmental issues, legal representation helps evaluate the impact on value and negotiate appropriate remedies or credits. Counsel can draft clear repair agreements, holdbacks, or escrow arrangements to ensure work is completed properly. This protects buyers who need assurance that identified problems will be addressed and helps sellers document agreed-upon solutions. Legal documentation reduces uncertainty and preserves remedies if the agreed actions are not completed as planned.
Transactions Involving Probate or Estate Property
Sales of property that are part of an estate or probate proceeding require additional steps to ensure the transfer complies with Tennessee probate rules. Legal counsel coordinates with personal representatives, court filings, and any required approvals to confirm the executor or administrator has authority to sell. Proper legal handling ensures the sale is valid, that proceeds are distributed as required, and that the transfer clears potential claims against the estate. This avoids future challenges to the transfer and helps the estate close in an orderly manner.
Local Representation for Troy Residential Real Estate
Residents of Troy and Obion County can rely on Jay Johnson Law Firm for focused legal support during residential purchases and sales. We provide timely contract review, title analysis, closing coordination, and negotiation assistance tailored to local practices and Tennessee law. Our goal is to simplify the process, reduce risk, and help clients close with confidence. Contact us at 731-206-9700 to discuss your transaction, and we will outline the steps we recommend to protect your interests based on the specific property and circumstances involved.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Residential Transaction
Clients choose our firm for practical legal guidance, clear communication, and local knowledge of Tennessee real estate procedures. We focus on timely document review and realistic solutions that move transactions forward. Our approach emphasizes client understanding and cost-effective strategies to resolve issues before closing. We collaborate with real estate agents, lenders, and title companies to coordinate necessary steps and keep the process on schedule, helping clients reach a successful closing with minimal stress.
We prioritize responsiveness and accessibility so clients receive straightforward answers to contract questions and clear recommendations when complications arise. Our team explains legal options in plain language, drafts necessary amendments or addenda, and prepares for closing to ensure documents and funds are handled correctly. Whether a transaction is routine or presents special concerns, we tailor our services to the client’s objectives and provide the attention needed to protect their property and financial interests.
Our firm’s local presence in Tennessee means we understand county-specific practices and work regularly with local title companies and lenders. This familiarity helps anticipate common issues and coordinate solutions efficiently. Clients benefit from a consistent legal presence during negotiations and on closing day, reducing the potential for last-minute problems and ensuring the transfer of title and funds occurs according to the agreement and applicable law.
Ready to Discuss Your Purchase or Sale? Contact Us Today
How We Handle Residential Transactions
Our process begins with an initial review of the purchase agreement and timeline, followed by a title review and coordination of any inspections or surveys. We identify potential issues, recommend contract changes or contingency language, and communicate with lenders and title companies to confirm closing requirements. As the closing approaches, we verify settlement figures and prepare necessary documents. We remain available to address last-minute questions and can attend the closing to ensure that the transfer of ownership and funds is completed accurately and in accordance with the agreement.
Step One: Agreement Review and Initial Title Check
At the outset we review the purchase agreement, seller disclosures, and the preliminary title commitment to identify obvious concerns and deadlines. This early review helps prioritize tasks such as obtaining inspections, addressing title exceptions, and negotiating any needed changes to the contract. We advise clients on contingency language and timelines that protect their interests and outline the likely steps to clear title and meet lender requirements. Early intervention reduces later surprises and sets a clear path toward closing.
Contract Analysis and Contingency Planning
We analyze contract language to confirm that price, contingencies, and closing dates reflect the negotiated terms. If necessary, we propose addenda or clarifications to avoid ambiguous obligations. Contingency planning includes defining acceptable inspection outcomes and financing conditions so clients understand how to proceed if issues arise. We communicate recommended changes to the other side and seek agreement that preserves the client’s options while keeping the transaction moving toward a timely closing.
Title Commitment Review and Issue Identification
Reviewing the title commitment early allows us to identify liens, easements, or other exceptions that may require action. We coordinate with the title company and lienholders to plan for payoffs or releases and to determine whether corrective deeds or affidavits will be necessary. This stage establishes the tasks that must be completed before a title policy can be issued, and it creates a timeline for resolving issues so they do not delay the scheduled closing.
Step Two: Inspections, Negotiations, and Financing
During this phase, buyers obtain inspections, appraisals, and lender approvals while sellers respond to any repair requests or disclosure clarifications. We assist in negotiating repair credits, drafting agreements for contractor work, and ensuring financing contingencies are satisfied. Communication among parties is essential to manage deadlines and expectations. Legal involvement helps formalize negotiated resolutions so that all parties understand obligations before moving to closing and prevents misunderstandings that could cause delays.
Managing Inspection Outcomes and Repairs
When inspections reveal issues, we help assess the significance of identified defects and negotiate appropriate remedies such as repairs, price adjustments, or credits. We prepare written agreements that set the scope, timeline, and responsibility for repairs and confirm how any credits will be reflected in the closing statement. Clear documentation protects both buyer and seller and ensures agreed actions are enforceable if disputes later arise.
Coordinating with Lenders and Appraisals
We coordinate communication between the client and the lender to confirm appraisal requirements and to address conditions for loan funding. When appraisal results differ from the contract price, we assist in exploring options such as negotiating price adjustments or seeking additional lender guidance. This coordination helps prevent financing-related delays and confirms that necessary documentation is completed so funds will be available at closing.
Step Three: Closing Preparation and Fund Transfer
In the final phase we review the settlement statement, verify prorations and payoffs, and ensure all closing documents are prepared correctly. We confirm that title insurance will be issued as required and that any outstanding liens have been addressed. Our role includes verifying that funds are available and that signatures and conveyancing documents align with the contract. We can attend the closing or coordinate remotely to confirm the legal and financial components are completed according to plan.
Final Settlement Review
We examine the settlement statement to confirm all prorations, fees, and payoffs are accurate and that credits negotiated during the transaction are reflected. This review helps prevent last-minute funding issues and ensures that net proceeds or amounts due at closing match expectations. If discrepancies are found, we work with the title company and opposing counsel to resolve them before funds are transferred so the closing can proceed smoothly.
Document Execution and Transfer of Title
At closing we ensure the deed and related conveyance documents are executed properly and that title transfers in accordance with the contract. We confirm the recording procedures and that title insurance will be issued to protect the purchaser’s ownership interest. If any post-closing steps are necessary, such as recording affidavits or forwarding prorated bills, we outline the responsibilities and follow up to completion so the client’s transaction is concluded with clear records.
Frequently Asked Questions About Residential Transactions
Do I need a lawyer to buy a house in Troy, Tennessee?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer to buy a house in Tennessee, but legal review provides important protections and clarity. A lawyer can review the purchase agreement, explain contingencies, and ensure contract timelines and obligations align with your interests. Early review helps identify potential problems before you are bound to the deal and reduces the risk of disputes during closing.Legal involvement is particularly beneficial when title issues, complex financing, or unique property conditions are present. A lawyer coordinates with lenders, title companies, and other parties to facilitate a smooth closing and can attend the closing if desired to verify documents and fund handling meet the agreed terms.
What should I look for in seller disclosures?
Seller disclosures should describe known property conditions, previous repairs, water intrusion, structural issues, pest damage, and any other facts that materially affect value or use. Evaluate whether disclosed items match inspection findings and ask for clarification or documentation for major repairs. Disclosures are important because they help buyers assess risk and make informed decisions prior to closing.If disclosures omit known issues or later reveal inaccuracies, remedies may be available depending on the circumstances. A lawyer can help interpret disclosure language, advise on negotiating repairs or credits, and explain potential post-closing options if significant undisclosed problems emerge after transfer of ownership.
How long does a typical closing take in this area?
A typical residential closing timeline varies depending on financing, title status, inspections, and any necessary repairs. In straightforward cash transactions with clear title, closings can occur relatively quickly once the contract is accepted and required documents are prepared. When financing is involved, lenders’ underwriting and appraisal processes can extend the timeline, and title or disclosure issues may create additional delays.Effective coordination among buyer, seller, lender, and title company helps keep the process on schedule. Legal assistance with document review, resolving title matters, and communicating deadlines can reduce the risk of postponements and help ensure the closing proceeds as planned.
What happens if a title issue is discovered before closing?
If a title issue is discovered prior to closing, the parties typically work to resolve it before funds and ownership transfer. This may include obtaining lien payoffs, releasing judgments, correcting public records, or securing additional documentation to clarify ownership. The title company will list requirements in the title commitment that must be satisfied for a title policy to be issued at closing.When immediate resolution is not possible, parties may negotiate solutions such as escrow holdbacks, delayed closings, or contractual modifications to allocate responsibility. Legal guidance helps structure these arrangements so they are enforceable and protect your interests while the title issue is addressed.
Can I back out of a purchase agreement after inspections?
Whether you can withdraw from a purchase agreement after inspections depends on the contingency language and the agreed deadlines. If the inspection contingency allows the buyer to terminate or request repairs within a specified period, timely action within that window preserves the buyer’s contractual rights. Failure to follow the contract’s procedures or deadlines can limit options and may result in forfeiture of certain remedies.If sellers refuse reasonable repair requests or disputes arise over inspection findings, legal counsel helps negotiate solutions or advise on termination rights under the agreement. Clear communication of inspection results and documented requests for repairs help preserve the buyer’s position and reduce conflict.
Who pays closing costs and how are they determined?
Closing costs vary by transaction and can include title insurance premiums, escrow fees, recording fees, prorated taxes, lender fees, and attorney fees where applicable. Who pays which costs is usually negotiated in the purchase agreement and can differ depending on local customs and the bargaining positions of buyer and seller. The settlement statement itemizes these charges and shows credits or debits for each party.Legal review of the closing statement helps confirm accuracy of prorations and payoffs and ensures negotiated credits appear correctly. If questions arise about unexpected fees, counsel coordinates with the title company and other parties to resolve discrepancies prior to disbursing funds.
What is a title commitment and why does it matter?
A title commitment outlines the current status of the property’s recorded ownership and lists exceptions that must be cleared for a title insurance policy to be issued. It identifies mortgages, judgments, easements, and other recorded interests that could affect ownership. Reviewing the commitment early allows parties to identify matters that need correction before closing and to plan how to address them.The title commitment matters because it informs the buyer about potential encumbrances and sets the requirements for insurable title at closing. Resolving listed exceptions and satisfying the commitment’s conditions protects the buyer’s future ownership and reduces the risk of post-closing claims against the property.
How do prorations affect the final amount at closing?
Prorations divide expenses like property taxes, utilities, and prepaid items between buyer and seller based on the closing date so each party pays its fair share. The settlement statement will list prorated amounts, showing credits or debits that affect the final cash due at closing. Accurate prorations ensure neither party is charged for expenses that belong to the other after transfer of ownership.If prorations appear incorrect, raise the issue with the title company and other parties before closing so adjustments can be made. Legal review of the settlement statement helps identify errors and confirms that negotiated credits and agreed-upon adjustments are reflected in the final figures.
What should sellers disclose about property condition?
Sellers should disclose known material defects and past problems that affect living conditions or property value, such as structural damage, roof leaks, pest infestations, drainage problems, or previous flooding. Clear and accurate disclosures protect both parties by setting expectations and reducing the likelihood of later disputes. Failing to disclose known issues can lead to legal claims after closing in certain circumstances.If sellers are unsure whether an issue must be disclosed, legal advice helps determine obligations under Tennessee law and common practice. Proper documentation of disclosures and any related repair agreements provides a record that supports the transaction and reduces the risk of misunderstandings post-closing.
How do transactions involving estate property differ?
Transactions involving estate property require additional steps to confirm the person signing has legal authority to sell and to comply with probate or court approval when necessary. The personal representative may need court orders or specific documents to complete the sale, and timelines can be affected by probate procedures. Legal guidance coordinates estate administration tasks with the sale to ensure the transfer is valid and that proceeds are distributed per the estate’s requirements.Proper handling of estate sales avoids challenges to the transfer and helps protect beneficiaries. Counsel assists with necessary filings, prepares required documents for closing, and ensures the sale proceeds are managed according to the court’s directions and Tennessee law.