“What do honest lawyers and UFOs have in common? You always hear about them, but you never see them.” Let’s change that narrative! Especially since our government has confirmed that UFOs are real… Meet Katelyn, the honest lawyer! I’ve known Katelyn for almost a decade now, and she continues to amaze me with her dedication to kindness and integrity. Although relatively new to the field of real estate law, Katelyn has surpassed my and my clients’ expectations as a closing attorney. My favorite lawyer-Katelyn story is this one: my clients had a very small window of time on closing day to sign documents. To accomodate my busy teacher client’s schedule, Katelyn offered to meet them at their school to sign documents. We closed on a home purchase at a picnic table in the front lawn of a Montessori school! It was above and beyond. Let’s hear what Katelyn has to share with us!
“Tell us a bit about your personal and professional background. What inspired you to pursue your current career?
I grew up in Millington and currently live in Midtown, Memphis with my husband, Frankie, and rescue pup, Benny. This town is my home, and I’m grateful for several Shelby County communities that have shaped my not-so-linear career path. After graduating from Rhodes College in 2015, I taught 6th grade science, coached soccer, and eventually worked my way into management at a law firm here in Memphis. Those experiences, among others, helped me realize that I wanted to attend law school. I graduated from the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law in 2021 and have been working in real estate law ever since. I chose real estate law, because it allows me to leverage my unique career experience and connection to our community in service to my clients.
What is your role in the closing process as the closing attorney? What should the client expect from you and your team?
Buying, selling, or refinancing property involves several moving parts. Generally, my role as a closing attorney is to ensure a smooth transfer of property interest from the seller to the buyer. To achieve this result, clients can expect me and my team to: (1) examine title searches and resolve any liens or issues affecting the property, (2) facilitate communication among all parties involved, including the buyer, seller, lenders, and real estate agents, (3) review and draft necessary legal documents, such as the deed to transfer property, and (4) carry out a closing meeting to explain documents, oversee the signing, and handle the transfer of funds.
What is the most important aspect of a real estate transaction, in your opinion?
Maintaining open and effective communication among all parties involved in the transaction is crucial to a successful real estate deal. Our team’s well-established processes and cutting-edge technology allow us to communicate effectively at every stage of the transaction.
Can you provide an example of a time when you had to negotiate a matter for a client that was out of the norm?
Rarely are there real estate transactions that fit a norm. I’ve handled hundreds of transactions and work on a team that has handled thousands more. From resolving heirship issues to drafting escrow agreements between parties, I’m confident that our team can evaluate and work out any unique matter that arises.
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest in real estate law?
I consider myself a lifelong learner. I regularly take relevant courses on real estate law and broader areas of law that impact real estate transactions. Additionally, I am incredibly fortunate to be on a team of six attorneys who constantly share and discuss laws affecting real estate.
Describe what makes you and your team the best choice for clients pursuing a real estate transaction.
With multiple offices across Shelby County and even into West Memphis, Arkansas, our CloseTrak team meets clients where they are to offer a convenient closing experience. We are a team of proven problem-solvers with many years of combined experience in both residential and commercial closings. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or a commercial investor, our team is equipped to look out for your best interests.”
A big thanks to Katelyn for her valuable time and expertise! As a realtor, I have a wealth of vendors and trusted experts in their respective fields. If you want to talk about how my team and I can best serve you in your real estate transaction, I would be more than happy to outline my work flow with you and see if we would be a good fit for each other.