Purchasing Off Market in Bay Area, CA - help with details

[Mimi H.]

Hi BPers,

I may have a chance to purchase a property off market in the Bay Area. Since I've only purchased via the "traditional route" in the past, it's not clear on what the process is (also, each state has such different laws). How does one go about getting a clear title, etc. when it's a FDBO deal? Do I have to find a real estate attorney or just a title company? Would appreciate any advice. Thanks!