What questions should I ask a title company before selling my home?
- inee
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
When selling your home, the title company plays a critical role behind the scenes. They verify ownership, clear title issues, prepare legal documents, and ensure funds are transferred correctly at closing. Choosing the right title company—and asking the right questions—can help prevent delays, surprises, and costly errors.
Here are the most important questions to ask a title company before selling your home so your transaction stays on track.
1. What Does Your Title Search Include?
A thorough title search protects everyone involved in the sale.
Ask whether the search covers:
Ownership history
Outstanding mortgages or liens
Judgments or unpaid taxes
Easements or restrictions
Identifying issues early gives you time to resolve them before closing.
2. Have You Worked With Properties in My Area Before?
Local experience matters more than many sellers realize.
A title company familiar with your area understands:
Local recording requirements
Common title issues in the region
Municipal processes and timelines
This can make the closing process faster and smoother.
3. Are There Any Known Issues With My Title Right Now?
If you’ve owned your home for a while—or inherited it—this is a critical question.
Potential issues may include:
Old liens that were never released
Boundary disputes or easements
Errors in prior deeds
Name discrepancies
Early discovery prevents last-minute delays.
4. What Fees Should I Expect as a Seller?
Understanding costs upfront avoids surprises at closing.
Ask for a breakdown of:
Title search fees
Recording fees
Settlement or escrow fees
Any seller-specific charges
A clear estimate helps you plan your net proceeds accurately.
5. How Do You Handle Payoffs and Liens?
Most sellers have a mortgage or other lien that must be paid off at closing.
Confirm that the title company:
Coordinates mortgage payoffs
Requests accurate payoff statements
Ensures liens are released properly
This step is essential to delivering clear title to the buyer.
6. What Is Your Typical Timeline for Closing?
Timelines matter—especially when you’re coordinating a move or purchase.
Ask about:
Average time to complete a title search
Document preparation timelines
Potential delays and how they’re handled
Knowing the schedule helps manage expectations.
7. How Do You Communicate During the Process?
Clear communication reduces stress.
Ask:
Who your main point of contact is
How updates are provided (email, phone, portal)
How quickly questions are answered
Responsiveness makes a big difference during closing.
8. Do You Coordinate With My Agent, Attorney, and Lender?
Selling a home involves multiple professionals.
A strong title company works closely with:
Your real estate agent
Attorneys (if applicable)
Buyer’s lender
Coordination keeps everyone aligned and prevents errors.
9. What Happens If an Issue Comes Up Before Closing?
Even well-prepared sales can encounter challenges.
Ask how they handle:
Unexpected liens
Missing documents
Title defects
Delayed payoffs
A proactive title company has solutions—not excuses.
Final Thoughts
Your title company plays a major role in protecting your interests and ensuring a smooth closing. By asking these questions early, you reduce risk, avoid delays, and move through the selling process with confidence.
If you’re thinking about selling and want guidance on selecting the right professionals—from title to pricing to timing—we’re always happy to help you navigate the process with clarity and ease.
Ina & Justin Nee
The Nee Team | Jack Conway
South Shore Real Estate Advisors
Helping buyers and sellers make smart, confident real estate decisions across the South Shore.
📞 [617-304-0333] | [781-724-8476]
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