Blog

Ever wonder what a title company actually does between contract and closing?

Most people know we’re part of the process. But very few know what’s happening behind the scenes for those 30 to 45 days.

Here’s a quick look:

• We search decades of property records for hidden issues
• We issue your title commitment outlining your coverage
• We coordinate with your lender on every document
• We prepare everything before you sit at the closing table
• We collect and disburse every dollar that changes hands
• We record your deed with the county — making it official
• We issue your owner’s title insurance policy — lifetime protection

That’s 8 steps. Most of it invisible to you. All of it critical.

We just published a full behind-the-scenes breakdown on our blog.

Buying a home in Ohio? Before you get to the closing table, there’s one process most buyers don’t fully understand — and it can make or break your transaction.

It’s called the title process.

Our latest blog breaks it all down in plain English:

✅ What a title search actually checks
✅ Why owner’s title insurance matters (and what it costs in Ohio)
✅ What your title company does between contract and closing
✅ What to expect on closing day

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or buying your fifth home, this is a must-read.

This article explains:

• What a Wholesaler Does
• What Ohio Senate Bill 155 Is
• How SB 155 Affects Wholesalers
• New Statute ORC § 5301.95 Disclosure Requirement

Expert TItle explains what FinCEN is, why this reporting exists, exactly which transactions are reportable, what information must be collected, who files, timing/retention, and why realtors should prepare clients when an entity or trust is buying a home.

You will learn:

• What is FinCEN — and why a real-estate rule?
• What kinds of transactions must be reported?
• Who must file the Real Estate Report? (the “reporting person”)
• Exactly what information must be collected and reported?
• Deadlines, retention, and timing (national — including Ohio)
• Why realtors (and their clients) must prepare — practical implications
• Quick checklist for realtors / title companies (what to request from an entity/trust buyer)
  
• Final notes & next steps

Dower rights are a legal concept with deep historical roots, but in Ohio, they continue to play an active role in real estate transactions. Whether you’re buying, selling, or refinancing property in Ohio, understanding dower rights is essential—especially for married couples.

Ghost Sellers & Common Scams in Real Estate: Insights from Expert Title Agency

In today’s fast-paced real estate market, scams like deed fraud, title issues from liens, and “ghost sellers” are on the rise. These fraudsters pretend to own properties, aiming to make a quick deal before getting caught. If you’re buying or selling, this video breaks down the key risks and how to protect yourself from these dangerous schemes. Learn why working with an experienced Realtor and Title Agency is more critical than ever to secure your property ownership and financial interests. Don’t miss these essential tips to safeguard your investment and ensure a smooth transaction!

Have specific questions about Home Title Insurance or other questions you’d like “EXPERT” help to understand??

Reach out to Expert Title Escrow Agency at 937-291-4201.

Subject: How Tax Proration Works in Ohio 

Property taxes and how they’re prorated at closing? Easily one of the more confusing parts of buying or selling real estate in Ohio.

Our team at Expert Title has walked a lot of people through it over the years—and we’ve answered our fair share of questions about it. That’s why we put together a blog that breaks it all down clearly for you and your clients.

In this post, we cover:

• Why property taxes in Ohio are so tricky 
• What tax proration actually means for buyers and sellers
• The difference between short and long proration (with a real example)
• How it’s calculated and who decides which method is used

We hope it helps take the guesswork out of this part of the process—and if you ever want to talk it through, just reach out. Expert Title is always happy to help!

Imagine putting your hard-earned money toward the perfect property—only to find out later the seller wasn’t who they said they were.

It’s happening more often in Ohio and across the nation. If you’re buying or selling real estate, you need to know the warning signs of the fake seller scam.

In Expert Title’s latest blog, you’ll learn:

• What seller impersonation fraud is and how it’s done 
• The six red flags that should make you pause
• What you can do today to protect yourself and your investment.

We know the market isn’t making things easy right now. Buyers are hesitant, rates are still high and some deals feel tougher to close.

But you don’t have to let these challenges slow you (or your clients) down.

People are still buying homes, and with the right strategies, they can do it without overpaying or feeling stuck. In our latest blog, we break down smart moves that buyers can make, including:

• How to know you’re financially ready
• Negotiating seller concessions to cut down upfront costs
• Exploring loan options that make homeownership more affordable
• Keeping in mind that refinancing is always an option later on