Miami Realtor Andreana Jackson breaks down the real estate closing process with attorney R.J. Curington, Esq. Clarity, protection, and confidence at closing.
Episode 11: Bringing Clarity to the Closing Table
With Real Estate Attorney R.J. Curington, Esq.
Buying or selling a home is often described as one of the biggest investments of your life — yet the closing process itself can feel overwhelming, confusing, and unnecessarily stressful. In Episode 11 of The Balance with Andreana Jackson, I wanted to shift that experience by focusing on what truly makes a difference: clarity, communication, and preparation.
As a Miami-based Realtor with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how anxiety at the closing table usually stems from a lack of understanding — not from the transaction itself. When buyers, sellers, and Realtors are properly informed and aligned, the process becomes far more calm, confident, and successful.
That’s why I was honored to sit down with R.J. Curington, Esq., a real estate attorney and the founder of Curington Law, for an honest, educational conversation about what really happens behind the scenes of a real estate closing — and how to protect yourself every step of the way.
Meet R.J. Curington, Esq.
R.J. brings a rare multi-market perspective to real estate law. He is licensed in Illinois, Indiana, New York, and Florida, and his firm offers what he calls a trifecta of services: real estate law, estate planning, and title/escrow services — all designed to work together to protect clients’ investments.
What stood out to me immediately was R.J.’s approach. His goal is not to overcomplicate the process, but to simplify it while ensuring clients are fully protected. As he shared on the show, you build the empire — then you protect it.
Why the Closing Process Creates So Much Anxiety
One of the most important takeaways from our conversation was this:
Most closing anxiety comes from a lack of education.
In Florida, Realtors draft contracts using standardized forms, and once signed, buyers and sellers are legally bound by strict terms, deadlines, and contingencies. Without proper guidance, it’s easy to miss key details — and those oversights can become costly.
R.J. emphasized that attorneys should ideally be involved before an offer is even submitted, not just at the closing table. Understanding the terms you’re agreeing to early on creates confidence and prevents surprises later.
Earnest Money, Contingencies & Missed Deadlines
We also discussed one of the most stress-inducing parts of any transaction: the risk of losing your deposit.
Missed inspection deadlines, misunderstood contingencies, or incomplete disclosures can quickly put earnest money at risk. R.J. shared how his team creates benchmark calendars for clients — outlining every key date and responsibility — so nothing falls through the cracks.
This level of organization benefits everyone involved and keeps deals moving forward smoothly.
🎧 Prefer to Watch or Listen?
If you’re buying, selling, or investing in Florida real estate and want a deeper understanding of the closing process, you can catch the full Episode 11 conversation here:
🎥 Watch on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/3jJNJbFtt1w?si=-V803PGOWFbAvTbU
🎧 Listen on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4i7pGMIr5T0FMaMccGxtWO?si=AJsi4wIvSJa7-gTMTSxMRA
Condos, Special Assessments & Florida’s New Reality
As someone who works extensively in the Miami Beach condo market, this topic hit close to home. Post-Surfside legislation has changed the landscape, requiring fully funded reserve studies and leading to significant special assessments, especially in older buildings.
R.J. explained why reviewing HOA documents is now more critical than ever and how undisclosed assessments can derail deals late in the process. While challenging, we both agreed these changes ultimately protect homeowners, buyers, and long-term property values.
Miami Real Estate: Value, Wealth & Due Diligence
We also explored Miami’s rapid growth and immense wealth — and addressed the question many buyers are asking: Are some properties overvalued?
In markets like Miami Beach, value isn’t just about square footage. It’s about experience — amenities, services, wellness offerings, and lifestyle. This is where knowledgeable Realtors truly add value through education, due diligence, and honest guidance.
Transparency After the NAR Settlement
Another major topic was how the NAR settlement reshaped our industry. While it required adjustment, I genuinely believe it elevated real estate professionalism.
Clear buyer agreements, upfront commission discussions, and transparency around fees reduce confusion and prevent uncomfortable surprises at the closing table. When expectations are clear from the start, trust is built.
Wire Fraud: A Critical Conversation
We couldn’t close the episode without addressing wire fraud, which remains a serious issue in Florida, especially in all-cash transactions.
R.J. stressed the importance of:
Verifying wiring instructions verbally
Never relying solely on emailed information
Working with secure title and escrow providers
Protecting funds is just as important as protecting contracts.
Finding Balance Beyond Real Estate
Because this is The Balance, I always like to end by talking about wellness. R.J. shared how yoga, meditation, prayer, and early mornings help him stay grounded as a business owner.
That personal balance allows him to show up focused, energized, and ready to advocate for his clients — every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
This conversation reinforced something I deeply believe:
Real estate doesn’t have to be stressful when the right team is in place.
Education, transparency, and preparation are not optional — they are essential. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, I hope this episode helps you approach the closing process with confidence and clarity.
Thank you for tuning into The Balance with Andreana Jackson. Until next time.
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