Why RSI Title
What We Do for You
As your settlement company, RSI Title protects your investment and makes sure every legal and financial detail is handled — so you can focus on moving in.
The Process
From Contract to Closing
Here’s what happens at each stage of your real estate settlement — and where RSI Title fits in.
Step 1
Days 1-3
Contract is Ratified
Your agent or lender sends us the sales contract. We open the file and begin coordinating with all parties — buyer, seller, real estate agents, and lender.
Step 2
Days 3-10
Title Search & Exam
We pull records going back decades to verify the seller’s right to sell, and to identify any title defects — unpaid mortgages, tax liens, easements, or judgments.
Step 3
Days 10-15
Title Commitment Issued
Once the title is clear, we issue a Title Commitment to the Lender — a promise to issue title insurance at closing, subject to any conditions being resolved beforehand as well as recorded easements or covenants. At the closing table you will receive your Owner’s Title Insurance Policy which protects your property rights for as long as you own the property.
Step 4
3 Days Before
Closing Disclosure & Cash to Close
Your lender issues the final Closing Disclosure at least 3 business days before settlement. We’ll confirm the exact amount you need to wire or bring to closing.
Step 5
Closing Day
Settlement Day
You sign the deed of trust, promissory note, and all closing documents. We verify funds are received, and once all conditions are met — you get the keys!
Step 6
1-2 Weeks After
Recording & Final Policy
We record your deed and deed of trust with the county within 1–3 business days and will send you a copy of the recorded deed promptly. We issue your Owner’s Title Insurance Policy at the closing table, so you have protection the moment you purchase your home!
Step 7
Ongoing
After the Closing
After closing, our work does not end. We are available to answer any questions you may have regarding homestead credit filings, tax reporting or refinance transactions. We are always happy to assist our clients!
Settlement Day Prep
What to Bring to Closing
Come prepared and settlement will go quickly — most closings take 45–75 minutes.
Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport) — all buyers must present ID
Checkbook for minor last-minute adjustments (rare, but helpful)
At closing you will sign approximately 25-50 documents, mostly from your lender. Contact us if you would like to review them in advance.
We will provide information on how to make your first mortgage payment, HOA or Condo
You will also receive information on how to apply for any Homestead Tax Credits if applicable
Bring any questions you have and we will do our best to provide answers!
Frequently Asked Questions
Buyers Ask. We Answer.
Clear answers to the questions we hear most from buyers at every stage of the process.
Yes. RSI Title follows strict cybersecurity protocols for all communication involving wire transfers and financial data. We use encrypted email for sending sensitive instructions and always recommend that clients call us directly to verify wire instructions before transferring any funds. Never wire money based solely on an email, even one that appears to come from us — always call first to confirm.
After settlement is complete and all funds are confirmed, we submit the deed and deed of trust to the county land records office — typically within 1–3 business days. Due to some county processing backlogs, the official recording date on the documents may be a few days after your closing date. Your title insurance coverage begins on your closing date regardless.
This is exactly why the title search happens before closing. If a lien, judgment, or defect is found, we work with the seller and their title to resolve it before settlement. Common issues include unpaid contractor liens, estate matters, or old mortgages that were paid off but never formally released. Most issues are resolvable — and catching them early is the whole point.
The Closing Disclosure (CD) is a five-page form from your lender that details every cost of your loan and transaction — loan terms, monthly payment, closing costs, and cash to close. By law, you must receive it at least 3 business days before closing. Review it carefully and compare it to your Loan Estimate. Contact us or your lender immediately if anything looks different than expected.
Buyer closing costs typically include:
- Lender fees (origination, appraisal, underwriting)
- Title search and title insurance premiums
- Settlement/closing fee
- State and county recordation/transfer taxes
- Prepaid interest, homeowner’s insurance, and escrow reserves
Total buyer closing costs generally range from 2–5% of the purchase price in the MD/DC/VA area. Your Loan Estimate from your lender will give you a detailed breakdown.