As a trial lawyer for more than a decade, I fought for the rights of people against large corporations and insurance companies who put profits over public safety. On behalf of my clients, I litigated and successfully resolved dozens of complex, multi-million dollar cases. One in particular, became a nationally recognized, landmark case in the field of medicine.
As a real estate attorney and real estate broker, I bring the same tenacity, skills, and experience in representing clients. Sound Counsel Realty is an essential, innovative and common sense approach to the current limitations in today�s real estate market. My past personal experiences as well as the experiences of family and friends have been frustrating when buying and selling homes. The minimal services offered by real estate agents does not justify the excessive fees charged or provide the legal representation needed for buyers and sellers.
Without question, one of the most critical requirements of the buying and selling homes is a thorough and comprehensive understanding of the complexities of contract law. Without legal representation, buyers and sellers expose themselves to serious and unnecessary risks. People in need of serious medical care seek the services of a physician. Likewise, buying and selling homes are legal matters involving a wide array of legal fields, including a working understanding of real estate law, contract law, statutes, administrative codes, court decisions, the law of torts, trusts and estates, family law, and even criminal law. In view of the minefield of known and unknown legal issues, only an attorney can adequately advise and protect your legal rights. Up until now, buyers and sellers have not had the opportunity to go to a real estate brokerage/law firm and hire one person who is both a real estate agent and a real estate attorney. They do now.
Background: Born Tucson, Arizona, September 4, 1967, Washington resident since 1971, Bainbridge Island resident since 2002; Admitted to the Washington State Bar 1997; Education; Washington State University, B.A., 1989, Political Sciences ; University of Wales, Swansea, United Kingdom, 1990, International Relations; Seattle University School of Law, Juris Doctor, 1997; Washington Law and Politics, 2005, 2006 - Rated top 2% of all Washington lawyers under 40 by professional colleagues; Member of King County, Kitsap County and Washington State Bar Associations; Real Estate Broker and Owner of Sound Counsel, PLLC, d.b.a., Sound Counsel Realty; Member of Northwest Multiple Listing Service; American Trial Lawyers Association; admitted to practice law in all Washington State Superior Courts, Appellate Courts, Supreme Court, and the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington; 40 hours a year, 5 consecutive years of Pro Bono services with a successful resolution in every case; Pro Bono award by Washington State Bar Association; Board Member of Bainbridge Island Youth Services; Past volunteer West Sound Wildlife Shelter; National Basketball Team of Wales, 1990; Proud husband and father.
I became interested in real estate as an undergraduate, became a home owner, and then a landlord about a year later. While purchasing my first home, I was amazed at the real estate industry. The agents I dealt with would avoid answering questions and had limited knowledge regarding the legal issues presented. As I bought another property, I became more interested in the real estate licensing process. When I discovered that to become a real estate agent, only 60 hours of online training was required, all my previous interactions made sense. A real estate agent does not have any legal training, and is not legally permitted to answer any legal questions about contracts, title, lending documents, or any other substantive issue. This lack of training and knowledge was concerning given the size of the purchase and that a home is often a person's most valuable asset. It was later when I went to purchase a small apartment building, and the agent added language to the contract that would have rendered it unenforceable, I decided there had to be a better way. With that experience, and tired of the high fees charged by traditional real estate companies, the idea for Sound Counsel Realty was born.
In this market, with a significant number of foreclosures, bank-owned, and short-sale properties, and the additional level of complexity involved, it is important to have someone with a broader set of skills and knowledge than a real estate agent can provide. As an attorney, I assist clients through the entire process and help them navigate short-sales and negotiating with banks. Banks have attorneys working for them, it is imperative that buyers have comprehensive representation protecting their interests.
I graduated from Seattle University School of Law and received a B.A. from the University of Washington. While at Seattle University, I was a member of the Moot Court Board and received a Presidential Law Scholarship. While in Law School, I studied real estate, landlord tenant, contracts, individual income tax.
Background: Born and raised in Seattle, Washington; Attended O'Dea High School; Education; University of Washington, B.A. Political Science; Seattle University School of Law, Juris Doctor; Presidential Law Scholar; Member Washington State Bar Association; Real Estate Agent and Owner of Sound Counsel, PLLC, d.b.a., Sound Counsel Realty; Member of Northwest Multiple Listing Service; Member Washington State Bar Association Real Property, Probate and Trust Section.
Hilary Kelly has over 25 years of sales and marketing experience in the corporate arena. Having an outgoing and enthusiastic personality are assets which have helped Hilary achieve the highest levels of success in her area of expertise. She is willing to go the extra mile for each and every client. As a result, Hilary has retained a very loyal following. A few of the corporations Hilary has represented include companies Qwest, Nordstrom, and Barrier Motors. While employed by Nordstrom, she earned the Pacesetter award for top sales and the All Star award for excellence in customer service on an annual basis. Hilary graduated from the University of Washington with a BA in Advertising and Public Relations.
Testimonials
Adam Morrow recently represented us as both an attorney and real estate agent in the purchase of our home on Bainbridge Island. To say that Adam went above and beyond our expectations during the process of our relocation would be an understatement. Not only did Adam provide exceptional service by advising us about current market conditions, he also went out of his way to view properties on our behalf and inform us of various financing options.
Having a real estate attorney as our agent was beneficial to us because it provided peace of mind during what is usually a stressful process. Adam's loyalty to us as clients was evident from the very beginning. We never doubted that he had our best interests in mind and that any sale negotiated by him would be done fairly and legally. Adam eventually negotiated a sale for us for $175,000 less than the original asking price!
Our experience working with Adam was so positive, that we have recommended him to several friends. I have referenced his timely communication and professionalism in general, but have also stressed his qualifications on a personal level. Adam takes the time to really listen to his clients and to clearly explain any issue needing clarification. These traits set him apart from the rest and made us realize what an important role quality service plays in any transaction.
- Anthony and Erin G., Bainbridge Island, WA
I worked with Matt van Winkle at Sound Consel Realty in the recent purchase of a home and would highly recommend his services to anyone entering into the crazy process of home buying. From the beginning days of searching for our dream home, through a very a-typical homebuying process, Matt was there for us at every moment. He answered frantic phone calls, patiently led us through the twists and turns of buying a home and always stood up for our interests. In addition to that, he saved us a lot of money through his unique business concept. Without his guidance, I would likely either be a wreck right now or not a homeowner. Thanks, Matt!
- Katie Z., Seattle, WA
Mr. Morrow's professional excellence was evident in every aspect of our experience. His expertise as an attorney at law and a real estate agent provided us with a very clear and straight forward experience in signing all agreements to list our property for sale. His marketing tools and plan is the most professional presentation I have seen in my 20 years of working with experienced brokers. Additionally, Mr. Morrow employed the most creative strategies in an effort to provide the property with the most exposure possible. His creativeness and flexibility enabled us to keep a fresh and visible listing amongst many listed properties in Kitsap County. As an Attorney at Law we were confident that the professional advice he provided was correct and sound. Mr. Morrow is one of Washington State's finest brokers.
- Emily and Ed W., Poulsbo, WA
Matt was extremely helpful and professional throughout the whole process. He was very quick to get back to me, either by phone or via email, and answered all questions I directed to him (and there were many). Another bonus is his law background, I knew that his experience would be an asset when dealing with contracts related to short sales/foreclosure properties. He did not pressure me at all when making offers, nor did he call any offers "weak or embarassing", unlike some other agents I've dealt with. The best reason to work with Matt: I closed on a short sale in less than a month!
- Mickey S., Bellevue, WA
I worked with Adam Morrow in the fall of 2007 on the sale of my home. As my attorney and real estate agent, he was well informed, organized, and able to provide me with both legal and real estate advice to make the sale of my home a smooth process. He was also well organized and well informed. His strategy to start the home at a lower price than other comparable homes was success. His strategy created multiple offers, which caused buyers in a seller's market to make increasingly higher, competing bids. I ended up making a much larger profit than expected.
Mr. Morrow shows a genuine interest in his clients, and a calm, personable demeanor that puts those around him at ease. I was happy with how he responded to my questions and requests in a timely manner and thoroughly informed me of information at each step of the process. He also handled interactions with other real estate agents and potential buyers, informing me of relevant information and keeping the stress on my end low. I was very comfortable working with Adam and have recommended him to friends and acquaintances. He was a pleasure to work with.
- Jamie M., Seattle, WA
Matt was absolutely fantastic to work with. We had a very sticky short sale situation and we were not even in the country. Matt went above and beyond the call of duty in helping us with our first home purchase. Not only was he incredibly knowledgeable about every aspect of the transaction, he was patient and supportive of our questions and uncertainties as well. Matt answered every email and made himself available at odd hours for phone calls because of our time difference.
He worked with our family members to coordinate things and was creative in trouble shooting all of those detail issues that arise in home buying. Matt is a truly dedicated professional that enabled us to accomplish a long awaited dream of ours. We have no doubt that without Matt's guidance and perseverance, we would not be the excited homeowners we are today. We can only hope to work with Matt some day again!
