When you decide to buy a home, get ready to ask a lot of questions. What kind of house do you need? Where do you want to be located? Who should you use as a real estate agent? What kind of financing do you want to use? What repairs will the house need? The list goes on and on, but don’t forget to ask yourself what title company to use.

A title company ensures that the property you’re purchasing has a clear title, meaning there are no legal issues, liens,or ownership disputes that could impact your purchase. They can also handle the closing process and issue title insurance to protect both you and your lender. To ensure you’re working with a reliable and knowledgeable title company, here are some questions you should ask them before proceeding.

What Services Do You Provide?

While all title companies offer standard services like title searches, closing facilitation and title insurance, some may offer additional services that can streamline the home-buying process. For example, do they also handle escrow services or can they assist with the recording of documents? Understanding their full range of services can help you gauge whether they’ll meet all of your needs.

How Much Are Your Fees?

Costs can vary between title companies, so it’s important to get a clear breakdown of their fees upfront. Ask about the cost of title searches, title insurance and closing services. Clarify whether these fees are fixed or variable and if there are any additional charges you should be aware of. Getting a detailed estimate will help you avoid unexpected expenses at closing.

How Will You Conduct a Thorough Title Search?

A title search is one of the most important steps in the home-buying process. It ensures that the property’s title is free of liens, judgments or claims from previous owners. Ask the title company about the scope of their title search process. How far back will they research the property’s history? Will they check for unpaid taxes or outstanding legal issues that could impact the title? A thorough title search will help you avoid any surprises after purchasing the property.

How Will You Communicate With Me?

Throughout the home buying process, clear communication is key. Ask the title company how they will keep you informed about the progress of the title search, any potential issues and the closing process. Will they provide regular updates via email or phone? How accessible are they if you or your realtor have questions? A title company with excellent communication practices can help make the home-buying experience smoother and less stressful.

What Experience Do You Have?

Experience matters when it comes to title work. A title company with a long track record is more likely to have handled complex transactions and can better navigate any issues that arise. Ask how long the company has been in business and if they have experience with the type of property you’re purchasing, especially if it’s an investment property or a unique transaction.