Title Tips, Tricks and Tales

       In the world of short sales, a title company isn’t just a paper pusher  or "processor" now that we like to attach glorified titles to every job real estate. Instead, think of your title partner as a mission-critical part of getting your short sale deal across the finish line. These days, short sales don't just involve distressed properties with multiple liens and delayed lender responses. Instead, the more likely scenario, is a home owner who purchased recently and underwater because they got into bidding war during Covid craziness, a 5 year arm hit or assessments and insurance has killed them.  Rushing to the finish line without first doing a deep dive into title searches, lien searches and payoff statements is like running blindfolded through a minefield.       One common snag? Solar.  Most homeowners don't think of it as  an issue so they fail to mention it, but it can blow up the deal unless it’s properly addressed ...

       Short sales can be a great opportunity for buyers and a much-needed escape hatch for sellers—but closing them is not business as usual. These transactions come with lender restrictions, third-party approvals, and paperwork that would make a tax accountant sweat. If you're involved in a short sale, you need a title company that knows how to keep things moving without letting critical details slip through the cracks.      For sellers, it’s important to understand that the deal isn’t done until your lender signs off on everything— including the final settlement statement. Any unexpected costs, unpaid HOA dues, or junior liens must be disclosed and resolved. Otherwise, the lender can pull their approval at the eleventh hour. For buyers, it means being prepared for potential delays and understanding that “as-is” truly means as-is . You’re likely taking on a property that needs work, so do your due diligence up front.      At RTR Titl...