The Investor’s Legal Checklist: A Conversation with Real Estate Attorney Geoffrey Middleton

In this episode, host Joshua Davis sits down with Geoffrey Middleton, a seasoned real estate attorney with over a decade of experience practicing in Alabama and Tennessee. Whether you're just getting started or scaling your portfolio, Geoffrey breaks down the legal essentials every investor should know.

Geoffrey explains why forming an LLC is a must to shield personal assets and how the rules differ between states like Delaware and Alabama. He dives into Series LLCs, foreign registration, and the crucial Certificate of Compliance needed for smooth property transactions in Alabama.

Learn how to pair LLCs with the right insurance coverage, why your operating agreement needs a “divorce clause,” and how to avoid title issues that can derail closings. Geoffrey also shares how to save money on title policies and navigate complex title situations.

From crafting solid purchase contracts to understanding a lender’s role in the closing process, this section unpacks the legal side of financing. Geoffrey also touches on trusts as alternative ownership vehicles, comparing revocable and irrevocable options.

If you’re buying occupied properties, don’t miss Geoffrey’s breakdown of Alabama landlord-tenant laws, lease takeover limitations, and how to handle problem tenants or squatters. He also covers key clauses every lease should include.

To wrap up, Geoffrey outlines how 1031 exchanges can help investors defer capital gains and build long-term wealth. He also shares beginner-friendly strategies like house hacking and highlights key tax benefits for heirs.