Frequently Asked Questions - Title Insurance & Escrow

What is a title search?
A title search is a detailed examination of the historical records concerning a property. These records include deeds, court records, property and name indexes, and many other documents. The purpose of the search is to verify the sellers right to transfer ownership, and to discover any claims, defects and other rights or burdens on the property.

What kinds of problems can a title search reveal?
A title search can show a number of title defects and liens, as well as other encumbrances and restrictions. Among these are unpaid taxes, unsatisfied mortgages, judgments against the seller and restrictions limiting the use of the land.


What is title insurance?
Title insurance is your policy of protection against loss if any of these problems- even a "hidden hazard" -results in a claim against your ownership.

What is a closing agent?
A closing agent is a disinterested third party that follows the instructions of your lender, realtor, attorney and buy-sell agreement to complete the sale or purchase of your property.

What does a closing agent do?
An agent gathers information from many sources to create the final Settlement Statement such as payoff information, tax information, deed preparation and commission amounts.

What happens at the actual closing?
The closing officer will explain all documents to you and answer any questions you have. You will then sign the necessary papers and the closing officer will notarize them.


What happens after the closing?
The records will be searched again and then the new documents will be recorded to change title. Disbursement happens after recording, so if closing happens in the afternoon, recording might happen the next morning.