Frequently Asked Questions

A “title” is the foundation of ownership property. It means that you have a legal right to possess that property and to use it within the restrictions imposed by authorities or limitations on its use-superimposed on the basic right to possession by previous owners.

Most definitely! Title insurance is a means of protecting yourself from financial loss in the event that problems develop regarding the rights to ownership of your property. There may be hidden title defects that even the most careful title search will not reveal. In addition to protection from financial loss, title insurance pays the cost of defending against any covered claim.

The one-time premium is directly related to the value of your home. Typically, it is less expensive than your annual auto insurance. It is a one-time only expense, paid when you purchase your home. Yet it continues to provide complete coverage for as long as you, or your heirs, own the property.

Anything in the entire ownership of a piece of real estate that may encumber the owner’s right to the “peaceful enjoyment” of the property or which may cause the owner to lose any portion of the property.

If anything should happen to defeat the title, your cause of action would be against the seller, and his ability to pay. Attorney’s fees and expenses would not be covered. No one can be sure the title is clean.

Not necessarily. There are two types of Title Insurance. Your lender likely will require that you purchase a Lender’s Policy. This policy only insures that the financial institution has a valid, enforceable lien on the property. Most lenders require this type of insurance, and typically require the borrower to pay for it.

An Owner’s Policy on the other hand is designed to protect you from title defects that existed prior to the issue date of your policy. Title troubles, such as improper estate proceedings or pending legal action, could put your equity at serious risk. If a valid claim is filed, in addition to financial loss up to the face amount of the policy, your owner’s title policy covers the full cost of any legal defense of your title.

Yes. We act as a central clearinghouse for the parties involved—collecting necessary documents, insuring adherence to the lender’s title instructions, making arrangements for proper payment and distribution of funds. We are fully prepared to work with you from the beginning of your transaction all the way through to conclusion.

You will want to have these items complete or in hand when you come to the closing (please confirm with your escrow officer prior to closing):

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Buyer
Buyer's copy of purchase agreement
Cashier's check for amount needed to close
Proof of purchase of insurance for fire, casualty, etc.
Photo identification (passport, driver's license, or state-issued identification card)

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Seller
Seller's copy of purchase agreement
Any unrecorded instruments that affect the title
Proof of satisfaction of any mechanics' liens, chattel mortgages, judgments, or mortgages that were paid prior to the closing
Photo identification (passport, driver's license, or state-issued identification card)