The sale or purchase of a home is one of the most important legal transactions, and understanding the process is absolutely essential, especially to avoid future litigation. Real estate attorneys advise and assist homeowners in all stages of property ownership, including negotiating, drafting, and reviewing all legal documents which form part of the real estate transaction. They can represent homeowners in the event of defect, non-disclosure litigation, apply for zoning variances,  appeal property tax assessments, clear liens, explore options to prevent foreclosure, and defend homeowners during foreclosure proceedings. Residential real estate attorneys can also represent either landlords or renters on lease negotiations, if landlord-tenant disputes occur or in the event of eviction proceedings.