How to Choose a Title Company in Sarasota

Choosing a title company is an important part of any Sarasota real estate transaction. A title company is responsible for confirming legal ownership, identifying issues that affect title, coordinating the closing process, and issuing title insurance. The quality and experience of the title company can directly affect whether a transaction closes smoothly or encounters unexpected delays.

This article explains what buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals should consider when choosing a title company in Sarasota.

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Understand the Role of a Title Company in Florida

Before selecting a title company, it helps to understand what a Florida title company does. Title companies are responsible for:

• Conducting a title search to confirm ownership
• Identifying liens, judgments, and restrictions
• Issuing title insurance policies
• Coordinating escrow and settlement services
• Preparing and recording closing documents

A title company’s work protects both buyers and lenders from ownership defects that may not be obvious during a transaction.

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Look for Sarasota-Specific Experience

Sarasota real estate includes waterfront property, condominiums, planned communities, older neighborhoods, and multi-parcel estates. Each presents different title considerations.

When choosing a title company in Sarasota, experience with local property types matters, including:

• Waterfront and coastal properties
• Condominiums and HOA-governed communities
• Manufactured and mobile homes
• Older properties with long ownership histories

Local experience helps identify issues unique to Sarasota County records and regulations.

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Confirm Licensing and Underwriting Relationships

In Florida, title companies must be properly licensed and operate under approved title insurance underwriters.

Buyers and sellers may ask:

• Which title insurance underwriters the company works with
• Whether the company is compliant with Florida regulations
• How title insurance claims are handled

Established underwriting relationships are an important part of title insurance reliability.

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Ask About Title Search and Review Practices

Not all title searches are identical. Some transactions involve straightforward ownership histories, while others require deeper review.

Consider asking how the title company:

• Reviews prior deeds and transfers
• Identifies unreleased liens or mortgages
• Handles title defects or corrective actions
• Reviews easements and recorded restrictions

A thorough title examination helps prevent problems after closing.

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Understand How Escrow and Funds Are Handled

Title companies commonly act as escrow agents, meaning they receive and disburse funds related to the transaction.

Important considerations include:

• How escrow funds are safeguarded
• When funds are disbursed
• How payoffs and recording fees are handled

Clear escrow procedures reduce confusion and risk during closing.

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Evaluate Communication and Responsiveness

Real estate transactions involve deadlines, documents, and coordination among multiple parties. Communication is a key factor in avoiding delays.

When selecting a title company, consider:

• How accessible the closing team is
• Whether updates are provided proactively
• How questions are handled during the process

Consistent communication helps all parties stay aligned.

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Ask About Experience With Complex Transactions

Some Sarasota transactions require additional expertise, including:

• Multi-parcel properties
• Foreign or out-of-state buyers and sellers
• Estate or trust-owned property
• Manufactured home title issues

A title company familiar with these situations can identify potential complications earlier in the process.

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Understand Fees and Disclosures

Florida law requires title-related fees to be disclosed on the settlement statement or closing disclosure.

When choosing a title company, parties may request:

• A written estimate of title and settlement charges
• An explanation of regulated title insurance premiums
• Clarification of third-party costs versus title company fees

Transparency helps avoid surprises at closing.

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Title Company vs Real Estate Attorney

Title companies and real estate attorneys often work together. While title companies focus on title examination, insurance, and escrow, attorneys address legal issues such as contract interpretation, ownership disputes, and corrective actions.

Some transactions benefit from coordination between both professionals.

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Final Thoughts

Choosing a title company in Sarasota involves more than comparing fees. Experience with local property types, thorough title review practices, clear communication, and proper escrow handling all contribute to a successful closing.

Contact Barnes Walker if you need title or legal assistance with a Sarasota real estate transaction.

This article is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.