08/13/26

Since students across our region will be back in session soon, the AmeriTitle team thought it was time for another round of title insurance education. So, what do we want you to know about title insurance this year? We’re glad you asked!

A title search is more complex than just looking through public records. Yes, our title professionals comb through public records, but that’s just part of the job. Research shows that 29% of title insurance claims stem from issues “that cannot be discovered through a public-records search alone.” That’s why having experienced searchers who can resolve potential problems before a sale is finalized is more important than ever.

A title search is important for refinance transactions, too. We know elevated interest rates may have put refi plans on hold for some of you, but here’s a message for anyone who plans to refinance your mortgage this fall: Your local AmeriTitle branch wants to be your title partner for those transactions, too.

Consider these words from ALTA CEO Chris Morton: “The real value of title insurance lies in the defects discovered, the fraud prevented and the property rights protected. A refinance may not change who owns the property, but it doesn’t eliminate the risks that can arise after a home is purchased.”

Owner’s title insurance is more than just a closing cost. For years, our industry has talked about how title insurance represents just a fraction of a transaction’s overall closing cost. While that’s still true, framing it that way has minimized the value of the protection that both a thorough title search and an owner’s policy provide homeowners for as long as they own the home.

Title insurance helps secure commercial properties, too. We’ve used the term “home” in this blog multiple times, but your CRE files need an expert title professional working on them as well – and your trusted AmeriTitle team can be your choice for those services! One important thing to note: commercial policies are often more complex and customized, so picking a team of experts with experience is paramount. Have a commercial transaction coming up soon? Talk to us about how we can help.

Here’s your homework assignment for the day: If you – or your clients – have questions about title insurance, reach out to your local AmeriTitle branch. We’re always here to drop some knowledge on this topic or anything else settlement-related. Talk title with us anytime!