Straight answers for a smoother transaction.

Title insurance protects against covered losses arising from defects in title that existed before a property was purchased. An owner’s policy protects the buyer, while a lender’s policy protects the mortgage lender.

A title search reviews public records to identify ownership, liens, judgments, easements, and other matters that may affect the property or a future transfer.

The parties review and sign transaction documents, funds are collected and distributed, and documents required to transfer or secure the property are prepared for recording.

Your closing team will confirm the exact requirements. In general, bring an approved form of photo identification and follow the provided instructions for funds and documents.

We use security-minded processes and verify transaction details carefully. Always confirm wiring instructions using a trusted telephone number before sending funds, and report unexpected changes immediately.

These forms help many mortgage borrowers understand estimated loan terms and final closing costs. Your lender can answer questions about figures specific to your loan.

An owner’s policy protects the buyer’s interest in the property against covered title problems that existed before the policy date. Coverage generally remains in effect for as long as the insured owner or qualifying heirs retain an interest in the property, subject to the policy’s terms, conditions, and exclusions.

A lender’s policy protects the mortgage lender’s insured interest in the property. It does not replace an owner’s policy and does not protect the buyer’s equity.

Some risks may not be apparent from public records, including forgery, undisclosed heirs, recording errors, mistaken identity, or documents signed by someone without proper authority. Title insurance is designed to address covered risks described in the policy.

Escrow is an arrangement in which an impartial party holds funds, documents, or other items until stated conditions have been satisfied. The escrow or settlement agent follows written instructions for the transaction.

A title commitment describes the requirements that must be satisfied before a title policy can be issued and identifies exceptions that may not be covered. Review it promptly and ask your closing team about anything you do not understand.

A lien is a legal claim against property, often securing payment of a debt or obligation. Mortgages, unpaid taxes, judgments, and certain contractor claims can create liens that may need to be addressed before closing.

An easement gives another person or organization a limited right to use part of a property for a stated purpose, such as utilities, access, or drainage.

A deed is a written legal instrument used to transfer an interest in real property. Requirements and deed types vary by state and transaction.

Recording places eligible documents in the appropriate public land records. Deeds, mortgages, releases, and other documents are commonly recorded after closing.

Closing costs can include lender charges, title and settlement fees, government recording charges, taxes, prepaid items, and other transaction-specific expenses. Your lender and closing team provide the applicable disclosures and final figures.

The timing depends on the transaction and lender. Do not send funds until you receive final instructions and independently verify wiring details with a trusted contact using a known telephone number.

Possibly, but the document and proposed use usually require advance review by the lender, title underwriter, and closing team. Raise the request as early as possible.

The closing team completes disbursement when authorized, sends documents for recording, addresses post-closing requirements, and issues title policies when the applicable conditions have been satisfied.

Stop and call a known, trusted contact at an independently verified number. Never rely on reply email, a new telephone number in the message, or last-minute instructions without verbal confirmation.