Wire Fraud Alert

MAR 21, 2020

We have been advised and have direct knowledge of increased attempts to victimize buyers/borrowers by fraudulently diverting their closing funds to an account that is not that of the title company.  In this current environment, many people are distracted, overwhelmed, and working in an environment of modified and sometimes, relaxed protocols.  Parties to the transaction are anxious to complete their closings before implementation of further restrictions that may impact the timeline of their closing.  Consequently, they may not be taking the time to understand and follow protocols that are critical to the security of their closing funds.  Real estate and lending professionals should:

  1. Discuss wire fraud early and often with their clients;
  2. Directly, by phone or in person, (NOT via email) provide the buyer/borrower/seller with the telephone number where the title company may be reached (IDEALLY - the parties put the title company phone number directly on the contract);
  3. Instruct the buyer/borrower/seller to directly call the title company for instructions on how to wire funds to the proper account.  Most wire fraud schemes are perpetuated by email communications that are not supported by personal phone call - the buyer/borrower/seller's phone call to the correct title company phone number is an easy and important way to avoid fraud.;
  4. Never pass-along wire instructions to the client.
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We've all been to the movies and seen the common mistakes made in horror movies.  We scream "Don't split the party!" or shake our head in dismay when someone tries to read the dark book out loud as a "joke."  We think that if the zombies did rise, we'd know better and would survive.  Maybe - but maybe not!

Earnest Money or deposit funds may be mailed or wired to one of our offices.  Please contact our office directly for wire instructions.

MAY 26, 2020

Closing costs are the final hurdle between a buyer and their new home.  It can also represent a surprising chunk of money. So, it's no surprise there are a lot of questions.

DEC 28, 2020

Imagine this: You're in the final few days before closing on your dream home. You already sold your new house and living. You're in the final few days before closing on your dream home. You already sold your new house and living

We are often asked: what's the difference between a title exam to provide title insurance and an opinion of title completed by an attorney?  The differences mainly come down to cost, the level of risk, and remedies offered to the landowner.

Although you may not typically speak with your closing agent until you are well into the purchase process or possibly not until the day of closing, it is a good idea to consider the closing agent early on, introduce yourself, and be sure the agent has all your contact details, phone numbers, e-mail and mailing address. Your realtor or mortgage broker can help you find the best partner for you and help you make contact!

FEB 04, 2020

There is a popular meme that comes from an Old El Paso taco kit.  In the commercial a family is unable to decide between soft taco shells or crunchy shells until a dark haired young girl solves their problem with a simple question: Why not both?  This one statement is celebrated by the family and the commercial launched her into meme stardom for any time people don't believe they should have to choose between two excellent options.