From the category archives:

Consumer

Your real estate closing: Keep it local and use a licensed professional

May 10, 2011

Why is it so important to you, the consumer, to have a local title insurance professional conduct your real estate closing? The old adage that all real estate is local is absolutely correct, no doubt about it. And that adage is no truer than in Pennsylvania. Each county and township has its own criteria to [...]

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The Problem with Out-of-State Title Insurance Agents

May 6, 2011

When you file a mortgage application with an out-of-state lender (including the big national banks), the lender typically orders title insurance through an out-of-state title insurance agency located in some place like Nebraska. And in some cases, the lender has an ownership interest in the title agency so it is making money off your loan [...]

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Title Insurance for a Loan Refinance

September 24, 2010

Understand Title Insurance and other related fees as they apply in the state of Pennsylvania for a refinance transaction. Title insurance, endorsements and other fees are explained.

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Philadelphia Property Owners can Benefit from Little Known Exemption

April 23, 2010

Homeowners are saving a lot of money on their property transfers, and it all comes down to three letters: FIP

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Major Expenses can Result in Special Assessements by Associations

February 11, 2010

Major snow events equate to major expenses for homeowners living in a community development; and unfortunately, there may not be enough money in the coffer to pay for the salting, de-icing, and snow removal.

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Beware of the In-Home Closing Price

October 26, 2009

Avoid the additional expense and increased risks of an at home closing by choosing a settlement service provider with local offices who offers closings using licensed title insurance agents.

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How to Shop for Title Insurance

October 22, 2009

In Why Shop for Title Insurance, we explained how consumers can protect themselves from inappropriate charges simply by comparing charges from various providers. Now we’d like to provide you information on how to shop for title insurance.

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Get Philadelphia City Certifications Online

October 19, 2009

Need a City Real Estate Certification for Philadelphia? No need to go to City Hall.

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Why Shop for Title Insurance

July 30, 2009

The process of buying a new home or refinancing is exciting and can be time consuming. You are not only worried about finding the right home, but you are also trying to lock-in your rate at the “perfect” time. The process can be exhausting.

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Fantastic! I am “Skipping” a Mortgage Payment.

May 18, 2009

Why am I skipping a mortgage payment?  This is a frequent question at the settlement table and one that deserves a detailed answer. The first mortgage payment on your new loan is typically due the first day of the second month after you have signed the mortgage papers.  For example, your refinance settlement takes place on [...]

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