Selecting a title company can feel like a big decision—and it is:

After all, title companies play a crucial role in real estate transactions. And while title agents mostly work behind the scenes, they do a lot for you. Their duties include reviewing property titles, facilitating closings, and filing and recording paperwork. They also issue title insurance policies for homeowners and lenders, and oversee the disbursements of funds at closing. Any hiccups on the title company’s end could delay closing or even sour the deal. With so much on the line, it’s essential to enter into the process well-informed.

Read on for some important considerations when choosing a title company.

1. Is the title company established and well-staffed?

The more experience that a firm has, the better they will be able to serve you. Larger, national title organizations enjoy the advantage of having more support staff and resources in-house. If you have a complex legal transaction, you’ll be thankful for having the expertise of a title attorney on hand. If you decide to use a smaller firm, ensure that they’re established and have access to local experts. Also, check on the stability of their underwriting title insurer. Title insurance exists to protect you. The last thing you want is for a title defect to arise long after closing and learn that your title insurer went out of business.

2. Do they provide outstanding customer service?

Your title agent works for you throughout the real estate process, although you may not meet him or her until closing day. Even then, questions pop up. Your individual agent should have a communication style that will gel with yours. Ask family and friends for recommendations. Was their title representative responsive, attentive, and able to explain each item clearly? Were they competent, efficient, and trustworthy?  Feel free to call up the company and ask questions. Request to speak to a title agent or title insurance agent to get a feel for his or her communication style.

3. Are they endorsed by respected professionals?

Real estate agents often build strong relationships with select title agents. This is because they recognize the value that solid title agents bring to closings. An endorsement from an experienced realtor is usually golden. You can also check what is being said about the company online. Have they received special recognition or awards? Do they have established partnerships with reputable companies? Take note of which professionals and organizations endorse them.

4. Do they provide convenient hours and locations?

Before choosing a title company, consider their location. You may need to visit their office more than once or need to sign a document under tight deadlines. If their office isn’t close by, will they provide on-site visits at your location? Will their title attorneys, escrow agents, and notaries come to you? Does the title company offer after-hours and weekend hours? Make sure your prospective company’s location and hours work with your schedule.

5. Do they use the latest technology?

Not so long ago, all real estate documents needed to be signed in person. The advent of secure portals and e-signatures has opened up a new world of convenience. Consider your prospective title company’s tech-based offerings. Have they invested in the latest, most secure technology? Will you be able to sign, track and print documents from anywhere? What steps does the company take to keep your information private? If you’d prefer to fax or mail your new title order, will you be assigned a dedicated account manager? When selecting your title company, ensure that they provide convenience offerings that work for you.

6. What are the fees?

Title fees can vary significantly by company. It’s important to understand what your cost of title insurance and escrow fees will be. Consult with your real estate agent or seek a Good Faith Estimate from your title company for a more accurate picture.

Choosing the right title company is an essential part of the real estate transaction.

At Certified Title Corporation, we do much more than just check the boxes. We go above and beyond to provide our clients and those they serve with top-notch customer service, robust online services, and an unmatched commitment to excellence. Our nationwide presence coupled with local offices in 40 states means we can offer abundant resources and highly-focused personal attention every time. Contact us today to get started. We’d be proud to serve you.

About Certified Title Corporation: Since 1994, attorney-owned Certified Title Corporation has been furnishing residential and commercial real estate stakeholders across the nation with robust title insurance, settlement, and escrow services. Renowned for their industry-leading reliability and exemplary level of service and quality, the Maryland-based company helps clients from all walks of life achieve their asset goals. To learn more, call (888)486-5511 or visit https://www.certifiedtitlecorp.com/.