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.
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.
Both are legal instruments that secure your home loan. Maryland, DC, and Virginia all use deeds of trust rather than mortgages. The practical difference: a deed of trust involves three parties (borrower, lender, and trustee), which can make foreclosure slightly faster if you default. For most buyers, the day-to-day experience is identical — you make monthly payments and own the home subject to the loan.
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.
RSI Title acts as a neutral third party that coordinates the entire closing. We conduct the title search, prepare all documents, collect and disburse funds (including your down payment and lender proceeds), issue title insurance, and record the deed after closing. We make sure money and property legally change hands at the same moment.
In Maryland and DC, a licensed title company can conduct settlement without a separate attorney. In Virginia, an attorney must certify title, but a title company still handles the closing process. RSI Title works with licensed attorneys as part of our standard process in Virginia. If you’d prefer to have your own attorney present, you’re always welcome to bring one.