In this video, Jonathan M. Deer, partner at Quantum Law Group, explains the risks most clients overlook in real estate deals. While buyers and sellers often focus on price and closing dates, the real dangers lie in how the deal is structured, how funds are handled during escrow, and how property ownership is arranged for the future.
Jonathan highlights that one of the most significant risks is the down payment during escrow. If a deal falls apart for any reason, the entire deposit may be at risk. Disputes often arise over who gets to keep that money, and resolving those fights can be costly. Additionally, improper structuring of the deal—such as how property title is held or how long-term use is planned—can create serious problems down the road.
Key risks in real estate transactions
— Misunderstandings between parties over deal terms
— Loss of down payment if the deal fails during escrow
— Disputes over escrow funds when transactions collapse
— Improperly structured ownership that creates tax or liability issues
— Lack of long-term planning for property use and ownership
Why clients need experienced real estate counsel
— To ensure all terms of the deal are clearly defined and enforceable
— To protect down payments and deposits in the event of disputes
— To negotiate escrow provisions that minimize financial risk
— To advise on title structure, liability, and long-term property planning
— To litigate real estate disputes when deals fail or parties disagree
How Quantum Law Group helps clients
— Reviewing, negotiating, and drafting real estate contracts
— Protecting client interests during escrow and deposit disputes
— Advising on property ownership structures and long-term planning
— Litigating real estate and construction disputes in California courts
— Representing buyers, sellers, and developers in complex transactions
About Quantum Law Group
Quantum Law Group is a Los Angeles-based litigation and trial law firm with deep experience in real estate, construction, and commercial disputes. Our attorneys, including partners Jonathan M. Deer, Steven Morris, and Peyman Cohan, bring decades of combined experience helping clients navigate the risks in major transactions.
We serve clients across Southern California, including Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Pasadena, Downtown LA, South Bay, and Long Beach.
Practice areas we cover
— Real estate transactions, escrow disputes, and litigation
— Business litigation and commercial disputes
— Insurance coverage and bad faith litigation
— Employment law and workplace disputes
— Intellectual property and trade secret litigation
— Mediation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution
— Complex jury and bench trials