Infinity Abstract & Title will be hosting an informational seminar from 3 to 5 p.m., on Wednesday, February 19 at the Blick Law Firm’s previous headquarters, 4351 Gunn Highway in Tampa. Licensed Title Agent Debbie Macias, will be discussing ‘Red Flags’ to look out for during Real Estate transactions. Certified Public Accountant Kevin B. Krueger, will be providing information regarding the 1099 deficiency law that expired on 12/31/2013. The seminar will include a Q&A session, and there will be light food and refreshments served.
As a division of Blick Law Firm, Infinity Abstract & Title provides title insurance and escrow services to clients throughout the entire State of Florida.
What is Title Insurance?
Title insurance is a form of protection that is necessary when purchasing a new home or property. Unlike other forms of insurance that only protect against future loss or damage, Title Insurance protects against loss or damage produced by past events that can cause a failure or defect to the title.
A Title Company will conduct a search of public land records to discover anything that can potentially affect the title of the property. After this title search is complete, the buyer will receive Title Insurance. Some common issues that can affect the title of a property consist of:
- Improperly prepared deeds
- Open mortgages
- Wills
- Probate proceedings
- Outstanding judgments or
- Tax liens against the property or individuals
- Covenants and restrictions
- Easements
After a records search is conducted, many existing problems can still arise, and hidden hazards can still exist. Title Insurance will protect you against these potential problems and pay for any legal fees involved in defending a claim.
Real Estate Agents
Realtors and title companies are prohibited from giving legal advice without a license to practice law. However, a real estate lawyer is obligated by law to disclose legal options to the homebuyer. For security and peace of mind, it is important to be aware of legal options when purchasing a home. An experienced real estate attorney can provide needed legal advice, and can interpret jargon presented in Closing documents. An attorney can also distinguish problems with your purchase documentation, as well as take care of discrepancies that can emerge during the real estate purchase process.
When purchasing a new home, it is important to seek a title company that has an experienced real estate attorney to ensure that your investment is legal and secure. Unlike other states, the state of Florida does not require homebuyers to hire an attorney for a title closing. However, buying a home is a complex process that requires legal direction. A real estate agent alone is not sufficient in handling the legal matters and ethical standards that exist when purchasing a home.
Educate Yourself
A Real Estate Closing finalizes the home buying process. It is important to understand the timeline of requirements that take place in order to complete the Closing.
The first thing the buyer must do is open an escrow account with a neutral third party. The buyer will provide money that will be held in consideration of the purchase, ensuring that the buyer intends to fully complete the sale.
After the buyer opens an escrow account, there are five steps that must be followed in order to protect the buyer’s interest in the home. These steps include:
- Completing a Title search
- Purchasing Title Insurance
- Completing a Home Inspection and Pest Inspection
- Negotiating the Closing Costs; and
- Locking the Interest Rate of the Mortgage
It is important for the buyer to follow these steps upon completion of any Real Estate transaction, and it is advisable to seek legal counsel prior to moving forward with the purchase process.
At Blick Law Firm we provide title insurance and escrow services to clients throughout the entire State of Florida. Call us today, for a free consultation.
