How to Read a Title Commitment

On October 9, 2018   /   Blog, Spokane, Title Insurance, WesternWA  

How to Read a Title Commitment

What is a Title Commitment?

A Title Commitment (also known as a Preliminary Report in some areas) is a dated formal report that sets out in detail the conditions under which a policy of title insurance would be issued on a particular parcel of land. Its sole purpose is to facilitate the issuance of the policy.

Within a short time after a title order has been opened, the matters of record relative to the issuance of the title insurance policy on the subject property have been assembled in the title search and examined by skilled technicians. This is the time when the Title Commitment is prepared and sent to the customer.

The report reflects the matters which would be shown as exceptions in a policy of the title insurance so that the parties to the transaction will be aware of any of those matters of record that may need to be cleared prior to the closing of the transaction. This report is issued before the title policy—hence the name Title Commitment.

Download & Print

Download a printable PDF:
How to Read a Title Commitment

Those matters shown in the report are as follows:

  1. The estate or interest covered.
  2. The record owner of the estate or interest.
  3. A legal description of the parcel of land covered.
  4. Requirements and Notes
  5. The easements, liens, encumbrances and other matters which affect the title to the land at the date and time of the report.

Members of the Washington Land Title Association (WLTA) use the type of report explained on the eBook below. The investigation of title is normally limited to the public record, with no reference to off record matters. All references to specific property, dollar amounts, documents, and individual and corporate identification are fictional and for the purpose of educational sample only.

A Guide to Reading the Title Commitment

How To Read A Title Commitment

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Ticor Title Welcomes Christina Hughes – Title Officer

On October 4, 2018   /   Blog, WesternWA  


We are very pleased to announce that Christina Hughes, Title Officer, has made the choice to join Ticor Title. With nearly two decades of experience in Title & Escrow and extensive experience with Commercial transactions, she brings a wealth of expertise and a loyal following of happy clients. Please join us in welcoming Christina to our team!

Christina Hughes

Title Officer
Christina.Hughes@ticortitle.com
425-434-4005

2825 Colby Ave Suite 300
Everett, WA 98201

About Christina Hughes

Christina has been in the Title industry since the year 2000. She began as a receptionist and steadily progressed through escrow assisting, title assisting, recording, and working in a title unit. She has been working almost exclusively on Commercial Transactions for the last 10 years, and has enjoyed working with a wide variety of clients.

As a clock hour certified instructor, she has been able to actively engage with the real estate community, educating clients and partners with insights about the “real day” in the life of a title officer. She is a gifted presenter and enjoys hosting “Title Insurance Q&A” sessions with customers. Underwriting challenges and incorporating requirements of lender and attorney requests keep her up to the task of improving the way she connects our customers to the insurance products they need.

Christina enjoys traveling with her husband and riding motorcycles in her spare time.

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You’re Invited – Ticor Covington Open House – Oct. 3

On September 21, 2018   /   Blog, WesternWA  

Please join us for food, refreshments, and good times as we celebrate our new location in Covington!

The growth of our Puget Sound operation has created opportunity for us to provide improved service and accessibility to the Southeast King County area. Our new escrow branch in Covington offers a central location with ample free parking, proximity to amenities, and easy access. We are committed to providing a stellar closing experience for our clients and partners in the Covington community.

You’ll find us conveniently located across from Covington Square Shopping Center where Highway 18 and Highway 516 meet.

RSVP:

Please RSVP to your Ticor Representative!

When:

October 3rd
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Where:

27116 167th Pl SE, Ste 102
Covington, WA 98042
PH: 253-631-3990
FX: 866-878-8977

Meet the team!

Janell Thalman, LPO/Escrow Branch Mgr
Marissa Wuthrich, Jr. Closer
Tawn Siriya, Jr. Closer

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You’re Invited – West Seattle Open House – September 19, 4 PM

On August 21, 2018   /   Blog, WesternWA  

West Seattle Open House September 19th 4PM

Please join us for food, refreshments, and good times as we celebrate our new and improved space in West Seattle and the addition of Lora Lilly to our team!

RSVP:

Jeff Parry
206-280-1500
jeff.parry@ticortitle.com

When:

September 19th
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Where:

4817 California Ave SW
Seattle, WA 98116

Meet the team!

Lora Lilly, Branch Manager / LPO
Keleen Goering, Escrow Closer / LPO
Yuzo Pigott, Escrow Jr. Closer
Reid Vance, Title Officer

About Lora Lilly, AVP, LPO / West Seattle Escrow Branch Manager

Lora LillyLora brings a varied background in education and escrow. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in International Studies specializing in Business & Management form the University of Nebraska. Her 25+ years of experience in escrow began at the oldest and largest title company in Hawaii, closing developer projects. In 1995 she relocated to West Seattle, closing residential and commercial transactions.

Before coming to Ticor Title, Lora owned and operated an independent escrow company in West Seattle for over 14 years. She is excited to continue serving her neighborhood community with her depth of knowledge and the additional resources of Ticor Title.

Lora believes in providing customers with the best escrow experience, grounded in integrity.

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Strong First Half Solidifies 2018 Momentum

On August 14, 2018   /   Blog, Spokane, WesternWA  

Strong First Half
SOLIDIFIES 2018 MOMENTUM

Ticor Title is a member of the Fidelity National Financial family of companies and the nation’s largest group of title companies and title insurance underwriters – Fidelity National Title, Chicago Title, Commonwealth Land Title, Alamo Title and National Title of New York – that collectively issue more title insurance policies than any other title company in the United States.

Title Operation Performance

Our title business finished the first half of 2018 with outstanding results, as we generated second quarter adjusted pre-tax title earnings of $338 million, and an adjusted pre-tax title margin of 17.1%, the best quarterly performance in both metrics in 15 years. Our adjusted pre-tax title earnings represented a $28 million growth over the second quarter of 2017.


Download Ticor Title Mid-Year Fact Sheet

Commercial Real Estate Overview

Our commercial operations continued their solid performance with second quarter total commercial revenue of $276 million, a 6% increase over the second quarter of 2017. This was driven by a 4% increase in closed commercial orders and a 1% increase in total commercial fee per file. A 7% increase in total commercial opened orders bodes well for commercial business over the next several quarters.

Residential Real Estate Overview

Fidelity National Title Group purchase opened and closed orders increased by 3% and 2%, respectively, in the second quarter versus the same quarter of 2017. In addition, the mix of business trend towards purchase transactions in the second quarter rose sharply, with purchase business accounting for 71% of both opened and closed orders

Strong First Half Solidifies 2018 Momentum

Moving into the second half of 2018, we remain focused on executing our business plans and striving to remain the most profitable title insurance company in the nation.

Excludes Discontinued Operations. All Figures in US dollars. Source: FNF 10-Q
**”FORTUNE®” and “FORTUNE 500®” are registered trademarks of Time Inc.
Time Inc. is not affiliated with, and does not endorse the products and services of Fidelity National Financial, its subsidiaries, or affiliates.

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4 Steps to Preventing Wire Fraud

On July 11, 2018   /   Blog, Escrow, Spokane, WesternWA  

four steps to prevent wire fraud

Download


Download 4 Steps to Preventing Wire Fraud

Buyers and Sellers are Targets for Fraud

Warning! Wire fraud is real and home buyers and sellers are one of the biggest targets.

Scams to divert funds via wire transfer are widespread. Home buyers and sellers are experiencing multiple attempts to divert their entire life savings every day and we want to make sure they do not fall prey to any scam. Fraudsters target home buyers via email to trick them into sending a wire for their down payment and closing costs to the fraudster’s bank account, instead of the title company. The money is then siphoned out of the account and transferred out of the country.

Four Steps to Avoiding Fraud

Don’t be a victim. Below are four steps to avoid falling prey to wire fraud scams:

Four Ways to Prevent Wire Fraud

Call, don’t email:

 Confirm all wiring instructions by phone before transferring funds. Use a trusted phone number from the title company’s website or a business card.

Be suspicious:

 It’s not common for title companies to change wiring instructions and payment info.

Confirm it all:

 Ask your bank to confirm not just the account number but also the name on the account before sending a wire.

Verify immediately:

 Call the title company to confirm the funds were received.

Additional Wire Fraud Prevention Tips

Protect Yourself and Your Clients From Wire Fraud
True Story: Escrow Team Prevents Diverted Payoff Wires

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Expanded Escrow Coverage & Service

On July 2, 2018   /   Blog, WesternWA  

We are excited to announce expanded coverage in the tri-county area that will provide improved accessibility and added convenience for our clients and industry partners. Ticor Title has been steadliy growing in the Puget Sound region with added locations, recruitment of additional local industry experts, refined processes, and ever-improving service levels. We believe that every successful real estate closing begins with a great team and we have cultivated a staff of exceptional professionals to provide clear communication, consistency, and a personalized experience with every transaction.

14 Escrow Signing Locations

With 14 Ticor Title branch locations placed strategically in the most populated areas in King, Pierce, and Snohomish Counties, you’re never far from one of our well appointed escrow signing locations. And of course, mobile signings are available for added convenience.

Please note our newest locations in Covington and Metro Seattle

Ticor Title Escrow Signing Locations
You’re never far from Ticor Title!
Branch Location Address Location Type
Seattle 1505 Westlake Ave N, Ste 150
Seattle, WA 98109		 Residential
Seattle Commercial 1420 Fifth Ave, Suite 2223
Seattle, WA 98101		 Commercial
Bellevue 11400 SE 8th Street, Ste 110
Bellevue, WA 98004		 Residential
Covington 27116 167th Pl SE, Ste 102
Covington, WA 98042		 Residential
Federal Way 33400 9TH Ave S, Ste 102
Federal Way, WA 98003		 Residential
Kent 10840 SE 208th Street
Kent, WA 98031		 Residential
West Seattle 4817 California Ave SW
Seattle, WA 98116		 Residential
Auburn 1002 15th St SW, Ste 225
Auburn, WA 98001		 Residential
Everett 2825 Colby Ave, Ste 300
Everett, WA 98201		 Residential
Lynnwood 19020 33rd Ave W, Ste 550
Lynnwood, WA 98036		 Residential
Puyallup 437 29th St NE, Ste B
Puyallup, WA 98372		 Residential
Gig Harbor 5775 Soundview Dr, Ste 204B
Gig Harbor, WA 98335		 Residential
Tacoma Commercial 1201 Pacific Ave, Ste 633
Tacoma, WA 98402		 Commercial
University Place 3929 Bridgeport Way W, Ste 202
University Place, WA 98466		 Residential
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Here We Grow Again! Welcome New Sales Executives

On June 25, 2018   /   Blog, WesternWA  

We are pleased to announce the addition of three new Sales Executives to our sales team in the Puget Sound region. Each new team member has been selected for their energy, service ethic, experience, and solution oriented approach to building business. Please join us in welcoming Kristine Borden, Roger Ellis, and Andrew Lee to the Ticor Title family.

Kristine Borden

Kristine’s extensive background in retail and wholesale lending for the last 20+ years will provide significant value for clients in Federal Way and the surrounding areas.

When not working, she enjoys instructing Hot Yoga on the weekends or walking her Great Dane puppy. Kristine also enjoys spending time with family and friends and watching her 17 year-old daughter compete on her ECNL select traveling soccer team or visiting her son at Washington State University.

Kristine Borden
Sales Executive
253-377-3077
kristine.borden@ticortitle.com
33400 9th Ave S Suite 102
Federal Way, WA 98003

Roger Ellis

Roger has stepped on to the scene with Ticor Title bringing 20 plus years of experience in the mortgage industry with a background as a Loan Originator, Wholesale Banking Executive and Business Development Manager. He has exceptional understanding when dealing with the needs of business partners but also offers a certain warmth and inviting flair that is both welcoming and confident when meeting the needs of customers.

Roger is a proud father of three and enjoys spending most of his time doting on his three beautiful grandchildren. If he’s not attending their sporting or dancing events, he can be found taking in live music festivals and traveling abroad.

Roger Ellis
Sales Executive
206-765-8051
roger.ellis@ticortitle.com
11400 SE 8th St Suite 110
Bellevue, WA 98004

Andrew Lee

Andrew comes to Ticor with over eight years in customer service, full cycle sales, and leading. He has worked with major brands including Cadillac, Honda, Acura, and others. Andrew understands that clear and consistent communication is important and always makes sure his clients are well informed throughout the transaction.

In his spare time, in addition to the ministry, the Seattle native enjoys spending time with his family, social networking, and improving his guitar skills.

Andrew Lee
Sales Executive
425-466-9440
andrew.lee@ticortitle.com
11400 SE 8th St Suite 110
Bellevue, WA 98004

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Ticor Welcomes Lucas Tally, Branch Manager, LPO

On May 31, 2018   /   Blog, WesternWA  

We are pleased to announce that Lucas Tally has made the choice to join Ticor Title as the branch manager for our Puyallup location. With over two decades of experience and a solution oriented approach, Lucas brings tremendous value to our clients, partners, and team.

Lucas Tally

Branch Manager / LPO

lucas.tally@ticortitle.com
253-904-1072

437 29th Street NE, Suite B
Puyallup, WA 98372

A Word From Lucas

With over 20 years’ experience working in Title and Escrow closing a vast array of transactions, I consider myself a seasoned escrow veteran. My brokers and lenders consider me a knowledgeable resource they can trust to provide solutions to any situation that may arise.

I pride myself on catering to my client’s needs and efficiently meeting even the tightest deadline. My favorite part of closing is the people I get to engage with. I understand the importance of providing a positive and memorable closing experience for my customers. Whether it’s a first time buyer or a seasoned investor, everyone has a story.

When I am not at work I enjoy raising my three amazing kids and making memories.

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We Remember and Honor Our Fallen Heroes on Memorial Day

On May 24, 2018   /   Blog, Spokane, WesternWA  

Memorial Day provides us with an opportunity to reflect, remember, and honor the American soldiers who have died during active duty. Here are some ways to honor our fallen heroes:

Visit a Cemetery or Memorial

Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, and volunteers often place American flags on each grave site at national cemeteries.

Pause at 3PM

A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time.

Flying the Flag at Half Staff

On Memorial Day, the flag should be flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon only, then raised briskly to the top of the staff until sunset, in honor of the nation’s battle heroes.

Wear a Flower of Remembrance

Following the events of WWI, The VFW adopted the poppy as its official memorial flower in 1922. Read the story here.

Provide Financial Support for Families of the Fallen

If you are inclined to give, the USO and Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) provide financial and emotional support to bereaved spouses and children of troops who have died serving their country.

However you choose to observe Memorial Day, we would like to wish you good health and happiness in the company of loved ones.

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