FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

During a real estate transaction, the buyer chooses the title or settlement company.

During a refinance, the borrower chooses the title company.

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​The settlement company represents the transaction, ensuring that the terms of the contract are met. Moreover, the closing agent and the settlement company do not act as an advocate for any of the parties -- borrowers, sellers, lenders or agents. ​

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​Unlike most insurance which protects against future events, title insurance protects against things that have occurred in the past. Title insurance protects you in the event there is a claim or loss against your ownership interest to the property. The policy contains information regarding the condition of your ownership rights to a piece of property. It provides you with a peace of mind to take the risk out of acquiring property whose legal history is unknown to you. For a one time premium you can receive a policy to protect against title defects or claims against the property and it can even protect you after the property has been sold.

For additional information click here: https://www.ctic.com/whatistitle.aspx

​Even the most thorough title search will not uncover certain possible defects. A few examples are: mistakes in the public records, forged deeds and other documents or undisclosed heirs. You don't want an event to occur that may deprive you of your right to use the property or sell it.

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​Since Lenders and Owners have an interest in the clear title to the property, most Lenders will require a buyer to purchase a Lender's Title Insurance Policy. This policy protects only the lender against possible title defects up to the maximum amount of the loan. The Owner has no coverage under this policy. In order for the Owner to be protected they must purchase an Owner's Title Insurance Policy. Owner's Title Insurance will protect you against any covered loss up to the full policy amount. There are two types of Owner's Policies available to the buyer. ​

Both parties are responsible to bring a valid government issued picture identification, such as a driver's license. In addition, if funds are needed for the sale or purchase our office requires a Cashier's Check made payable to West View Title Agency, Inc. or funds via a bank wire only. Please obtain our wiring instructions from one of our team members by calling the office at 540-434-7575. ​

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​The seller will sign a Proceeds Check form at closing instructing our office how to disburse funds after the legal documents are recorded at the clerk's office. Our office will either send funds via wire or provide a check from our office.

​A closing for a purchase usually lasts about one hour, whereas a refinance usually only lasts about half an hour.

At a purchase, both parties (buyers and sellers) attend along with their real estate agents. At a refinance, the borrower(s) attend. During both a purchase and a refinance, often times the lender or loan officer will attend closing with their client(s).

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After the documents are recorded at the clerk's office we will regular mail the deed, unless advised otherwise. Our title agent will email the owners policy with 6 months of closing.