American Land Title Association (ALTA)
The American Land Title Association (ALTA) is the national trade organization that represents the title insurance and settlement services industry. ALTA develops the standardized title insurance policy forms, endorsements, and industry best practices used by title companies throughout Florida and the United States.
ALTA Policy Forms
ALTA publishes two primary policy forms used in Florida. The ALTA Owner's Policy protects the property buyer against title defects, undisclosed liens, forgeries, and errors in the public record. The ALTA Loan Policy protects the mortgage lender's security interest. Both policies are single-premium, indemnity contracts that remain in effect as long as the insured retains an interest in the property.
ALTA Best Practices
ALTA's Best Practices framework establishes seven pillars of operational standards for title and settlement companies. Florida title companies that achieve ALTA Best Practices certification demonstrate compliance with licensing requirements, escrow accounting standards, data security protocols, and professional liability coverage. Many national lenders require their Florida title company partners to maintain current ALTA Best Practices certification.
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Barnes Walker Title Services
Barnes Walker Title maintains ALTA Best Practices compliance and provides comprehensive title services throughout Southwest Florida. Submit a title inquiry to begin your transaction.
Reviewed by the attorneys at Barnes Walker, Goethe, Shea & Robinson, PLLC