Key takeaways
- In Miami-Dade, the buyer usually chooses the title company. Because Florida sets premiums by regulation, the real differences are fees, responsiveness and how your money is protected.
- Ask for a full quote that lists endorsements, settlement and search fees, Documentary Stamps, intangible tax and recording fees.
- A good title company verifies wiring instructions by phone and orders lien searches and estoppels as soon as it receives the contract.
In Miami-Dade, the buyer usually chooses the title company. Because Florida sets title insurance premiums by regulation, the real differences between title companies are in their fees, their responsiveness and how they protect your money. These eight questions will tell you what you need to know.
1. Are you licensed and insured in Florida?
Title agents and agencies in Florida are licensed by the state. Ask who will handle your file and confirm the company carries appropriate insurance and underwriter appointments.
2. Are you approved by my lender?
Many lenders only close with vetted settlement agents. Advance Partners Title is an ISS Vetted Closing Professional Member, a distinction required by many of the top lending institutions.
3. What’s included in your quote?
Ask for a full quote, not just the premium. It should list endorsements, settlement and search fees, Documentary Stamps, intangible tax and recording fees, so you can compare true totals.
4. How do you protect against wire fraud?
Real estate wire fraud is common and costly. A good title company verifies wiring instructions by phone and tells you, in writing, never to rely on instructions received only by email.
5. Who will be my closer, and how will you keep me updated?
You should know who is handling your file and how status updates reach you, your Realtor and your lender. Ask how files are tracked and how quickly calls and emails are returned.
6. How do you handle municipal liens, permits and estoppels?
In Miami, open permits and association estoppels are the most common causes of last-minute delays. Ask when the company orders lien searches and estoppels; the answer should be “as soon as we receive the contract.”
7. Can you close where and when I need?
If you travel, live out of state or simply have a tight schedule, ask about mobile closings, mail-away signings and remote online notarization.
8. What happens after closing?
Your relationship with a title company shouldn’t end at the closing table. Ask how you’ll receive your recorded documents and owner’s policy, and who answers questions later. Our post-closing department is available indefinitely.
Talk to our team
Advance Partners Title is an attorney-owned Miami title company with over 90 combined years of title experience in South Florida. Contact us or request a quote to see how we answer every one of these questions.
Frequently asked questions
Who chooses the title company in Miami?
In Miami-Dade County the buyer usually chooses the title company, because by local custom the buyer pays for the owner's title insurance policy. The choice should be made before the contract is signed so the right company is named as escrow agent.
Are title insurance rates negotiable in Florida?
Title insurance premiums are set by Florida regulation, so the premium for the same coverage doesn't change between companies. Settlement fees, search fees and endorsements can differ, which is why you should compare full quotes.
How can I avoid wire fraud when closing on a Miami home?
Confirm wiring instructions by phone using a number you already know, and never rely on instructions received only by email. A good title company tells you this in writing.
Can I close on a Miami property if I can't be there in person?
Ask your title company about mobile closings, mail-away signings and remote online notarization.
This article is general informationEvery transaction is different. For advice on your situation, talk to our team or your attorney.