What does your settlement agent do, and does it matter who you use?
The simple answer is that the settlement agent coordinates the services of the Realtor, lender, homeowner’s insurance agent, surveyor, appraiser, seller’s settlement agent, and numerous others to ensure that your closing occurs when you expect it to, and without any problems. Sounds simple, but hours of phone calls, emails, and faxes are required in preparation for your actual closing.
If you have participated in a closing where you entered the room, signed numerous documents, and then left without any last minute issues, then pat your settlement agent on the back – you found a good one.
Settlement agents are similar to the officials in a basketball game: the less you notice them, the better they’re doing.
Here’s what some of our recent customers have said about us:
“Your office was wonderful and the only stabilizing factor in two hectic closings. They went above and beyond, and were so accommodating to my crazy schedule. Please pass along my gratitude to all involved.”
“We really appreciate how quickly and smoothly the whole process went. We also appreciate the extra mile the officer went to complete our closing. We were definitely pleased with the treatment we received and with the work performed.”
“Thank you for making this ‘first’ in my life so easy and comfortable. I have already told others about the good service I received.”
Unlike hiring other professionals, if you become dissatisfied with the services of your settlement agent, it’s usually too late to make a change. Before you select a settlement agent for your closing, get references from your Realtor, or from friends and neighbors. Also, interview the settlement agent you are considering, to make sure they are responsive to your needs. As the old saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
– Ron Critzer
Please Note: Articles written by CST employees are the opinions of licensed title insurance agents and are based on experience as such. They are not to be taken as legal advice.