Buyers

Your Guide to a Smooth Settlement

Everything you need to know as a homebuyer — from contract to keys in hand.

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.

Title Search & Exam

We research the property’s full ownership history to uncover any liens, judgments, or claims before you close.

Title Insurance

We issue both owner’s and lender’s policies — one-time premiums that protect you for as long as you own the home.

Document Preparation

We draft and coordinate all closing documents, deeds, and lender packages so settlement day runs smoothly.

Funds Management

We collect, hold in escrow, and disburse all closing funds — including down payment, lender proceeds, and seller payoffs.

Deed Recording

After closing, we record the new deed and deed of trust with the county land records, officially making you the owner.

Licensed & Local

Our team knows MD, DC, and VA law — three different sets of rules, one experienced team guiding you through all of the

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.

When will the deed be recorded in my name?2026-05-28T01:47:44+00:00

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.

What is a deed of trust, and how is it different from a mortgage?2026-05-28T01:47:24+00:00

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.

What costs should I expect to pay at closing?2026-05-28T01:48:28+00:00

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.

What does a title company actually do at settlement?2026-05-28T01:42:49+00:00

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.

Do I need an attorney to close on a home in MD, DC, or VA?2026-05-28T01:47:08+00:00

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.

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