Since most of us buy or sell only a few homes during our lifetime, we are unlikely to have the contact information for a trustworthy title company at our fingertips. And because most of us don’t deal with this type of high-stakes transaction regularly, finding a reliable title company can seem daunting. But it doesn’t have to be!
For our college basketball fans, let’s compare choosing a title company to filling out your brackets for this month’s NCAA March Madness Tournament because, interestingly enough, there are some similarities between the two. College teams are evaluated based on their performance during the regular season, ranking and strength of schedule. Likewise, when choosing a title company, you should consider their experience, reputation and the quality of their services.
Experience matters. Just as a basketball team’s success depends on the contributions of each player, a title company’s success depends on the experience and professionalism of its team members. When choosing a title company, it’s essential to evaluate the qualifications and knowledge of the folks who will be handling your transaction. You should expect your closing agent to coach you throughout the entire process, answering all questions you may have. Something else to consider: A company with multiple offices has the advantage of being more responsive, with access to more resources and a proven track record in various markets.
Reputation speaks volumes. One of the great aspects of college basketball is its rich sense of history and tradition. When choosing a title company, it’s wise to do some homework before making your final pick. Look for reviews and ratings of title companies in your area, including complaints or negative feedback. Talk to other industry professionals, such as real estate agents, attorneys and mortgage brokers, for their recommendations. A company with a long history of success and satisfied clients will likely be a winner who advances in the industry – or to the next round.
Don’t overlook a strong defense when it comes to safety and security. A team’s performance on the court can be affected by injuries or other unforeseen circumstances, just as unexpected security risks can impact the success of a real estate transaction. Choosing a title company on the cutting edge of technology helps streamline and simplify the entire process. Yet, it is imperative to select a title company that keeps its guard up regarding cybersecurity risks. No matter how big or small a company is, cybercriminals don’t discriminate. Keep your information secure with a solid defense.
Choosing a reliable and trustworthy title company is a little like filling out your March Madness brackets. Both require careful consideration and evaluation of multiple factors to make informed decisions. At Continental Title Company, our mission is to ensure the security of every client we serve while continuing to be a leader in the title insurance industry. When researching title and closing companies for your next real estate transaction, contact us at a location near you for any questions. We’d love to team up with you for the big win!