Whether you are buying commercial property, defending against foreclosure, or navigating a boundary dispute, a Kansas City real estate attorney gives you the legal guidance to protect your interests at every stage of the transaction or dispute.

Areas of Practice

Residential and Commercial Transactions

Real property transactions in Missouri involve title searches, deed review, survey analysis, disclosure obligations, and closing coordination. Legal representation helps buyers and sellers catch title defects, easement issues, and contract terms that could create liability after closing.

Foreclosure Defense

Missouri is a non-judicial foreclosure state, which means lenders can proceed without court approval under a deed of trust. Homeowners facing foreclosure have limited time to act. A Kansas City real estate attorney can evaluate whether the lender has followed proper procedures, assert applicable defenses, and negotiate loan modification or repayment agreements.

Landlord-Tenant Law and Evictions

Missouri eviction law — governed by Chapter 535 RSMo — requires landlords to follow specific notice and filing procedures. Errors in the process can delay or defeat an eviction. Tenants have rights to proper notice, habitability standards, and security deposit accounting. We assist both landlords and tenants in Kansas City residential and commercial landlord-tenant disputes.

Mechanics Liens

Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers who have not been paid for work on real property can file a mechanics lien in Missouri within six months of last providing labor or materials. Property owners who receive a lien have options: contest its validity, negotiate a release, or bond around the lien. Timing is critical on both sides.

Commercial Property Tax Appeals

Missouri assesses commercial property every two years. If your property’s assessed value does not reflect market conditions — for example, because of vacancy, deferred maintenance, or an income shortfall — you can appeal to the County Board of Equalization and, if necessary, the State Tax Commission. Appeals must be filed by specific deadlines.

Real estate disputes move on legal deadlines. A lien challenge, a foreclosure response, or a tax appeal filed one day late may be dismissed regardless of its merits. Retaining a real estate attorney early allows you to protect your position while there is still time to act.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Missouri require an attorney to close a real estate transaction?

Missouri does not require an attorney at closing. However, having legal counsel review purchase agreements, title commitments, and closing documents protects against terms or defects that a title company is not authorized to advise on.

How long does a Missouri foreclosure take?

Under Missouri’s non-judicial process, a lender can complete foreclosure in as few as 60 days after the statutory notice period. The timeline depends on lender procedures, any bankruptcy filings by the borrower, and whether the borrower asserts defenses.

What is the deadline to file a mechanics lien in Missouri?

A mechanics lien must be filed within six months of the claimant’s last day of furnishing labor or materials. A lawsuit to enforce the lien must be brought within six months of filing. Missing either deadline extinguishes the lien claim.

Can I appeal my commercial property tax assessment in Kansas City?

Yes. In Jackson County (Kansas City), commercial property owners can appeal to the Board of Equalization after receiving their assessment notice each odd-numbered year. If the appeal is unsuccessful, a further appeal to the Missouri State Tax Commission is available.