EP19: Before the Closing Table with Michael Gutman and Todd Baltch

Real estate can look clean on paper. Then the inspection comes in, the funding gets weird, or the township slows everything down. On this episode of The Jersey Link Podcast, Jose Sanchez and co-host Kate Vargo sit down with Michael Gutman and Todd Baltch at Riley and Gutman in Freehold to talk about what really happens before the closing table.Michael has been practicing real estate law in Freehold for more than 35 years, but he does not talk about it as just paperwork. He talks about people. First homes. Big moves. Nervous sellers. Excited buyers. “It’s about the experience people are having,” he says.Todd brings the practical side in fast, especially for buyers trying to win in a tough market. Proof of funds, preapprovals, inspection terms, and family money can all change how strong an offer really is.The best part is how honest they are about the stress. Michael even jokes that real estate attorneys are part stress counselors. “This is like a chess game,” he says, because every move can change the next one.Here are the key takeaways: (2:22) The human side of every closing(12:58) Why real estate deals bring unexpected turns(13:54) Why no transaction moves in a straight line(14:17) Real estate attorneys as stress counselors(16:20) Thinking two steps ahead in every deal(17:38) The mistake buyers make with cash offers(19:49) What buyers give up to win the deal(20:58) Buying the horse, not the saddle(24:16) Why you should call before signing(29:30) How Freehold became the right place(31:26) The character of Freehold’s old homes(33:23) The local places that make Freehold specialMichael Gutman Michael L. Gutman, Esq., is a Freehold-based real estate attorney with more than 35 years of experience helping clients buy and sell homes. A Rutgers graduate, he later earned his law degree from Case Western Reserve University and an MBA from Weatherhead School of Business. His work centers on guiding people through real estate transactions with clear communication and steady support. Outside of law, Michael is also connected to magic, boating, and the Freehold community.Todd BaltchTodd R. Baltch is a real estate attorney with experience in residential closings, real estate litigation, foreclosures, and landlord-tenant matters. He studied at the University at Buffalo and later earned his law degree from Touro Law School. At Riley and Guttman, his work focuses on helping buyers and sellers move through home transactions. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family, playing guitar, exercising, and hiking.About Katlin VargoKatlin Vargo is a real estate agent, focused on serving buyers, sellers, and investors in Central New Jersey. She has lived in Middlesex County for over ten years and brings a strong understanding of the local market. Outside of work, she spends time with her son, Beau, and their dog, Brooklyn, exploring nearby neighborhoods and parks.Connect with Katlin:InstagramAbout Jose SanchezJose Sanchez is a Broker-Associate at Keller Williams Realty with 22 years of experience in real estate, financial sales, and business operations. He leads a team, oversees recruitment, and manages client relationships throughout the buying and selling process. Jose also directs marketing efforts and helps drive team performance. He works closely with the community to support local growth and development. His focus remains on guiding clients and building strong partnerships across the region.Connect with Jose: LinkedInInstagramDisclaimerThis podcast is for informational purposes only and reflects personal stories and community perspectives. It should not be considered professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with relevant experts for guidance on specific issues.