A title company is the neutral third party that researches the property’s legal history (the “title”), fixes or warns about problems, holds and disburses funds (escrow), coordinates closing, records the paperwork with the county, and issues title insurance to protect the buyer and lender against covered title defects.

1. Order opened & file intake

A real estate agent, lender or buyer/seller sends the purchase contract to RSI Title. We create a file in our system and gather basic information: names, property address, contract dates, contact info for all parties, lender information (if any), and the earnest money deposit instructions.

2. Earnest money / escrow account set up

RSI Title provides escrow wiring or deposit instructions and accepts the buyer’s earnest money. We place those funds in an insured escrow trust account and log receipt in the closing ledger.

3. Title search (public records search)

We run a full title and judgment search through county records, tax records, courts, recorded maps, and other public sources to uncover deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, restrictions, judgments, tax issues, or probate filings.

4. Title exam and commitment preparation

A title examiner reviews the search results and drafts a Title Commitment that lists what must be cleared before closing, exceptions, and requirements. This is shared as part of the title work and with the lender so they can continue with the loan processing.

5. Clearing defects and satisfying requirements

If problems exist (old mortgages, liens, taxes, judgments, probate), RSI Title resolves them by requesting payoffs, obtaining releases, preparing affidavits, or coordinating with lenders and attorneys.

6. Escrow & payoff coordination

We collect payoff figures, HOA statements, and prepare the Closing Disclosure, ALTA Settlement Statement, or HUD-1 showing how funds flow.

7. Closing package & wiring instructions

RSI Title prepares the settlement package, provides secure wiring instructions, and verifies wire requests to reduce fraud risk.

8. Settlement / closing appointment

We schedule and coordinate the signing. At closing we verify identities, collect signatures, notarize, and handle funds.

9. Post-closing: recording documents

We record the deed, mortgage, and releases with the county to legally transfer ownership. The lender receives the executed loan documents and reviews for compliance with their closing instructions.

10. Disbursement of funds

After recording, RSI Title disburses funds: payoffs, commissions, seller proceeds, taxes, and fees.

11. Issuance of title insurance policies

RSI Title issues the Owner’s and Lender’s Title Policies once requirements are met and documents are recorded.

12. Closing file retention & post-closing support

We retain records per regulations and remain available for copies, endorsements, and claim assistance. As required by State and Federal agencies, certain reporting of the transaction is made for compliance.

When you’re ready to open escrow, or if you have title questions, contact RSI Title. We’ll open your file quickly, provide a clear title commitment, and guide all parties to a smooth, secure closing. Visit rsititle.com or call us to get started.

*Disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not legal advice. For legal questions, consult a licensed attorney.*