If a buyer's lawyer is acting for a seller who is unrepresented, what is a critical step the lawyer must undertake?

When a buyer's lawyer is acting for a seller who is unrepresented, a critical step for the lawyer is to inform the seller of the need for independent legal advice. This is essential because the lawyer represents the interests of the buyer, and it is important to ensure that the seller understands their own rights and obligations in the transaction. Without independent advice, the seller may not fully grasp the implications of the contract or the legal consequences resulting from the transaction, potentially leading to conflicts of interest or misunderstandings.

Providing this information helps safeguard the seller's interests and ensures that they have the opportunity to receive unbiased legal counsel. The seller may then seek advice that is specifically tailored to their situation, which can contribute to a fairer and more transparent transaction overall. This step underscores the ethical obligation of lawyers to avoid conflicts and ensure that all parties are adequately informed and represented in real estate transactions.