Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Title insurance protects you from financial loss due to title defects that may not be discovered before closing, such as unknown liens, recording errors, or ownership disputes. Unlike other insurance, it’s a one-time cost that protects you for as long as you own the property.

• Owner’s Title Insurance protects the buyer’s ownership interest.
• Lender’s Title Insurance protects the lender’s interest in the property and is typically required when financing a purchase or refinance.

An Owner’s Policy is optional but strongly recommended.

• Reviewing the title commitment
• Clearing any title requirements
• Coordinating with lenders, agents, and attorneys
• Collecting and disbursing funds
• Signing closing documents
• Recording documents with the county

Once everything is completed and funds are received, ownership officially transfers.

Most closings take 30–45 days, depending on financing, inspections, title issues, and contract terms. Refinance timelines may vary.

Typically, you will need:

• Two forms of ID (one must be a valid government-issued photo ID)
• Any required funds (usually sent by wire in advance)

We’ll let you know exactly what you need before closing day.

We recommend wiring funds the day before closing, or first thing the morning of closing. Closing cannot be completed until all funds are received and lender authorization is provided.

Escrow is a secure account used to hold funds and documents until all conditions of the transaction are met. The title company acts as a neutral third party to ensure everything is handled properly.

A title commitment is a report that shows:

• The current owner of the property
• Any liens, easements, or restrictions
• What must be cleared before closing

It is a preview of the title insurance policy that will be issued after closing.

• A municipal lien search checks for unpaid utility bills, code violations, and local government liens.
• An HOA or Condo Estoppel confirms dues, fees, violations, and special assessments with the association.

These items may need to be addressed before closing.

A survey is optional for some cash purchases and certain refinances, but it’s highly recommended. Surveys help identify:

• Property boundaries
• Easements and encroachments
• Fence lines
• Other issues that could affect the property

If you choose to waive a survey, you may also waive survey coverage on your Owner’s Title Policy.

Buyers are responsible for ensuring their homeowners insurance policy is active and bound at closing. Title companies often mail the initial premium on the buyer’s behalf, but it’s the buyer’s responsibility to confirm that coverage is applied correctly.

If insurance is not in place or lapses, lenders may place forced coverage, which can be expensive and charged to the borrower.

All outstanding HOA dues, fees, and assessments must be collected or cleared before closing. Failure to address these may result in exceptions to your title policy. Buyers should review estoppels carefully and contact the HOA directly with questions about rules, dues, or special assessments.

Your deed is recorded shortly after closing. Once recording is complete, the Owner’s Title Insurance Policy is issued and delivered to you for your records.

Yes! Your Owner’s Policy may qualify you for reissue or discount rates when refinancing or selling. Always contact us first—we’re happy to help you save money.

We encourage open communication! If you ever have questions during your transaction, contact Haven Title Group LLC—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.