When buying or selling your Florida home you most likely do the appropriate research before choosing your real estate agent, your lender, your moving company and others. But did you know that you also have the right to choose your title company? It is critical to choose a reputable, experienced company to ensure that you have a smooth and hassle-free transaction.Below are questions you should be asking when searching for a title company.
Is my Money Safe?
Make sure that the company has a fully staffed escrow and accounting department dedicated to protecting your funds. Ask for a written guarantee that the company does not disclose your personal information to anyone not involved in the transaction and find out if they carry fidelity coverage and errors and omission insurance.
Is the Title Company Financially Stable?
To make sure that the title underwriter is financially stable, check the Demotech website, which issues Financial Stability Ratings (FSRs) for title underwriters.
Is the Title Company a Neutral Third Party?
Some title companies are owned by lenders, real estate firms or builders which may cause a conflict of interest. Your Title Insurance company should be independent and unbiased to ensure that the transaction closes according to the terms of the contract, without any complications.
Is the Rate Quoted Much Lower than What Other Companies are Charging?
Below market premiums may indicate a lack of experience, subpar service or insufficient financial and accounting controls.
In Addition to the Premium, are there Other Fees and Charges?
Ask about fees for electronic delivery, overnight courier, cashier's check, release tracking, wire transfers and other charges that may add up to be more than the amount charged by reputable title companies. Make sure you have all the associated fees in writing before signing any agreement.
Does the Title Company Conduct Thorough Title Searches and Report All Exceptions?
Title companies are required to perform a "reasonable examination" for every transaction, which includes providing you with actual documents for any exceptions (e.g. liens, unpaid taxes). Your title company must identify, disclose and resolve all issues prior to closing.
Is the Title Company Locally Owned and Operated?
Beware of a title company which outsources production of the title commitment and portions of the closing process overseas. A local company will be more knowledgeable about Florida real estate laws and customs as well as the local real estate market.
Are the Employees of the Title Company Licensed?
Any title company employee who provides rate information to the public must have a license. By Florida law, sales people, title examiners and searchers must be licensed. The Division of Insurance also regulates activities and has the right to audit files, impose fines for improper actions, discipline agents and take other corrective action.
The Clear Choice for Informed Florida Homebuyers: Title Partners of South Florida
At Title Partners of South Florida, we're proud to say we thoroughly meet all of these basic requirements and more. By trusting us with your title insurance and real estate closing services, you're ensuring you'll have a home buying experience that's professional, engaging and memorable.We're proud to serve homebuyers in Ft. Lauderdale, Broward County and throughout Southern Florida. Act now and contact us online or by phone at (954) 566-6000. Request a fast, custom and comprehensive title insurance quote today to get in touch with one of your experienced, licensed title agents. We're looking forward to discussing your closing soon!]]>
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