FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about title insurance, settlement, and closing in Maryland. Don't see yours? Call 410-695-6227 — a real person will pick up.
We verify that the seller can legally transfer clean ownership, fix any title problems found, coordinate all parties (agents, lenders, buyers, sellers), hold and disburse funds securely through escrow, conduct the closing itself, and record your documents afterward. Think of us as the transaction's neutral quarterback.
Yes. In Maryland, the buyer has the legal right to select the title and settlement company. Your agent or lender may recommend one, but the choice is yours.
Most financed purchases close 30–45 days after the contract is ratified. Cash purchases can close in as little as 1–2 weeks, since there's no lender processing. The signing itself usually takes 45–60 minutes.
The lender's policy is required by your mortgage company and protects only the loan balance. The owner's policy is optional and protects your equity — your down payment and appreciation — for as long as you own the home. Both are one-time premiums paid at closing, and buying them together earns a significant simultaneous-issue discount.
Premiums are based on the purchase price and paid once — there are no monthly or annual charges. The combined cost of owner's and lender's coverage is typically well under 1% of the purchase price. We're happy to provide an exact quote for your transaction at no obligation.
A valid government-issued photo ID is the essential item. Your funds should be wired in advance following instructions verified by phone. If anything else is needed for your specific file, we'll tell you well before closing day.
Always verify wiring instructions by phone with our office at a number you know — 410-695-6227 — before sending anything. We never change wiring instructions by email. Any email claiming updated instructions should be treated as fraud and reported to us immediately.
A uniquely Maryland arrangement, most common in the Baltimore area, where a homeowner owns the house but leases the land beneath it for a small annual payment. Most residential ground rents can be redeemed (bought out) through a statutory process, converting the property to full fee-simple ownership. We identify and explain any ground rent during the title search.
Yes — we handle select commercial transactions such as small multifamily, office, and investment properties across Maryland, in addition to our core residential work. Contact us with the details and we'll scope it honestly.
Our post-closing team records your deed and deed of trust with the county, disburses all funds, obtains formal releases of the seller's old mortgages and liens, and issues your final owner's title insurance policy. You don't need to do anything — we track every file to completion.
Ready for a closing you don't have to worry about?
Get a title quote in minutes — or call our Annapolis office and talk to a real person who will handle your file personally.
