top of page

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs for Buyers and Sellers

​
General Title Questions
​

  • What does a title company do? A title company ensures the property title is clear of any defects or claims, issues title insurance, and facilitates the closing process for real estate transactions.

​

  • Why do I need a title company? A title company protects your investment by verifying ownership, resolving title defects, and providing title insurance to safeguard against unforeseen claims or disputes.

​

  • What is title insurance, and why is it important? Title insurance protects against financial loss due to defects, liens, or disputes over property ownership that may arise after purchase.

​

Title Search and Title Insurance
​

  • What is a title search? A title search examines public records to verify the seller's right to transfer ownership and to identify any liens, claims, or encumbrances on the property.

​

  • What’s the difference between an owner’s policy and a lender’s policy? An owner’s policy protects the buyer’s financial interest in the property, while a lender’s policy protects the lender’s investment in the mortgage.

​

  • How much does title insurance cost? Title insurance costs vary based on the property’s value and are regulated in Ohio. Your title company can provide a detailed quote.

​

Title Defects and Resolutions
​

  • What is a title defect? A title defect is an issue such as an unpaid lien, incorrect legal description, or undisclosed heir that affects the property’s marketability.

​

  • How are title defects resolved? Resolution depends on the defect but may include paying liens, obtaining legal documents, or filing corrective deeds. An experienced title agent handles this process.

​

  • What happens if a title defect cannot be resolved? In rare cases, unresolved defects may delay or prevent the closing. Your title company will advise you on next steps, which may include legal action.

​

Closing Process
​

  • What is the role of the title company at closing? The title company prepares closing documents, facilitates the signing process, manages funds, and records the deed with the county.

​

  • What do I need to bring to closing? Bring a government-issued photo ID, any requested documents (e.g., power of attorney), and certified funds for closing costs, if applicable.

​

  • Can I close remotely? Yes, Companion Title offers remote online notarization or mobile closings, in compliance with Ohio state regulations and depending on your specific transaction.

​

Specific Situations
​

  • What if there are liens on the property I’m buying? The title company will identify the liens during the title search and work to ensure they are satisfied or resolved before closing.

​

  • How does a title company handle foreclosures or properties in probate? Title companies perform detailed searches and coordinate with attorneys to resolve complexities specific to foreclosures or probate properties.

​

  • Can a title company help with title issues on investment properties? Yes, Companion Title can assist real estate investors by resolving issues like unrecorded deeds, tax liens, or chain-of-title discrepancies.

​

After Closing
​

  • What happens after closing? After closing, the title company ensures the deed and mortgage are recorded, funds are disbursed, and title insurance policies are issued.

​

  • How long does it take to receive the deed after closing? It typically takes a few weeks to a month, depending on county recording times. The title company will keep you informed.

​

  • What should I do if I discover a title issue after closing? Contact your title company immediately. If covered, title insurance will handle the claim and protect your interests.

​

FAQs for Realtors

​
Lead Generation and Lead Capture
​

  • How can I generate more leads as a Realtor?  Companion Title offers co-branded marketing materials, hosts educational seminars, and provides market insights to help you attract potential clients. We also partner with Realtors to create resources like buyer and seller guides that resonate with your audience.

​

  • What is the most effective way to capture leads from my website?  Add lead capture forms, offer downloadable resources such as "10 Tips for First-Time Homebuyers," and integrate them with your CRM. Companion Title can help create co-branded content to enhance your website’s engagement.

​

  • How can Companion Title help me generate leads?  We provide business growth strategies like hosting joint workshops for potential clients, offering co-marketing campaigns, and supplying local market insights to target your ideal audience.

​​
Building an Online Presence

​

  • How can I enhance my online presence as a Realtor?  Post market updates, client success stories, and tips for homebuyers and sellers. Companion Title can collaborate with you to create custom social media content or blogs that position you as a local market expert.

​

  • What type of content should I post to attract more buyers and sellers?  Share community highlights, market trends, staging tips, and educational videos. Companion Title can assist with co-branded videos and blog posts tailored to your audience.

​

  • How can Companion Title support my online marketing efforts?  We offer digital resources like co-branded infographics, educational videos, and SEO-optimized blogs that align with your goals to attract more clients online.

​

​

Leveraging AI Tools

​

  • How can I use AI tools like ChatGPT to grow my real estate business?  Use AI to craft engaging property descriptions, personalized client follow-ups, and educational social media posts. Companion Title can train you on using AI effectively for lead nurturing and marketing.

​

  • Can Companion Title help me use AI in my business?  Yes! We provide AI training sessions that show how tools like ChatGPT can streamline your workflow, from generating leads to creating client-facing content.

​

​

SEO Strategies

​

  • How can I improve the SEO for my real estate website?  Optimize your website with local keywords, create high-quality blog posts, and keep your Google Business Profile updated. Companion Title can co-create SEO-optimized blog content for your website.

​

  • What blog topics can help boost my website traffic?  Topics like "How to Navigate the Ohio Real Estate Market," "First-Time Homebuyer Tips," and "How to Stage Your Home for a Quick Sale" are great. Companion Title can partner with you to develop these.

​

​

Client Retention and Referrals

​

  • How can I stay top-of-mind with past clients?  Send newsletters, social media updates, and seasonal greetings. Companion Title can provide co-branded client materials that keep you connected and reinforce your value.

 

  • What can Companion Title do to help me retain clients?  We enhance your client experience with seamless closings, educational resources, and follow-up content that keeps your clients engaged and informed.

​​

bottom of page