How to Be Land Title Examiner - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 1, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The title examiner is a critical position in the real estate industry. Their primary responsibility is to review and analyze legal documents related to land titles to ensure the accuracy of the records. Through their work, title examiners protect the interests of both the buyers and sellers of a property by ensuring that all the legalities are in order and that the title is clean.

This is especially important for lenders, who rely on the title examiners expertise to ensure that the property can be used as collateral for a loan. Without the work of a title examiner, buyers may be at risk of being taken advantage of or may purchase a property that has unresolved legal issues, such as liens or encumbrances. lenders would not be able to trust in their collateral without the assurance of a title examiners work.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent for a Land Title Examiner position. It is also beneficial to take classes in real estate, business and computers.
Pursue an associates degree in a related field. Although an associates degree is not always required, it can be beneficial for a Land Title Examiner. A degree in business, finance, legal studies or real estate can help prepare students for the job.
Complete an internship or apprenticeship. Many employers require Land Title Examiners to have at least one year of experience. An internship or apprenticeship can provide the necessary experience and knowledge needed.
Obtain a state license. Most states require Land Title Examiners to obtain a license. Requirements vary by state, but usually include passing a written test and completing a certain number of hours of coursework.
Participate in continuing education classes. It is important for Land Title Examiners to stay up-to-date on the field of real estate law. Many states require Land Title Examiners to participate in continuing education classes in order to maintain their license.

The process of becoming a reliable and capable Land Title Examiner requires dedication and hard work. By gaining a thorough understanding of the land title examination process, researching local and state laws, and keeping up with changing regulations and procedures, individuals can build their skillset and become well-versed in the field. This knowledge and experience are essential for ensuring accuracy in the critical task of examining land titles.

having excellent communication skills, being organized and detail-oriented, and working well with clients are all essential traits for successful Land Title Examiners. With a high level of expertise, those who specialize in this field can provide quality assurance for title ownership, helping to protect buyers and lenders from potential losses due to title errors.

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Job Description

Analyze legal documents such as deeds, mortgages, and other title documents to determine ownership of real estate.
Verify that title documents are in correct form and meet legal requirements.
Research public records such as court decisions, liens, and encumbrances to identify title defects.
Prepare reports and issue title commitments and policies that provide assurance of title to real estate.
Coordinate with clients, lenders, attorneys, and other parties involved in real estate transactions.
Monitor changes in laws and regulations related to land titles.
Resolve title disputes in collaboration with attorneys and other professionals.
Prepare detailed abstracts of title that summarize title history of real estate.
Make recommendations to clients on matters related to title clarity and risk analysis.
Review and resolve boundary line disputes between landowners.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of laws, regulations, and procedures pertaining to the transfer of title to land
Ability to read and interpret legal documents such as deeds, titles, and liens
Excellent research skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
Attention to detail
Ability to work independently and in a team setting
Superior organizational skills
Knowledge of basic computer programs
Ability to meet tight deadlines
Excellent communication and customer service skills

Being a Land Title Examiner requires a certain set of skills in order to be successful. Attention to detail is paramount, as examiners must carefully review and analyze real estate documents to ensure they are legally accurate and valid. They must also have a strong knowledge of land law and title regulations, as well as a keen eye for identifying potential title issues.

strong communication skills are necessary in order to effectively communicate and resolve any title issues with buyers, sellers, lenders, or other stakeholders. All of these skills are essential for a Land Title Examiner to accurately assess the title status of real estate properties and ensure that all parties involved can move forward with the transaction.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as a land title examiner?
What type of land title examination processes are you familiar with?
Can you tell me about a difficult situation you had to resolve while working on a title examination?
How do you stay up-to-date on changes in title law?
What steps do you take to ensure accuracy while performing title examinations?
What strategies do you use to keep track of multiple title examination projects?
How do you ensure compliance with applicable state and federal laws when performing title examinations?
What processes do you use to prepare and review title reports?
How do you manage time to adhere to tight deadlines for title examinations?
How do you handle customer objections or disputes regarding title issues?

Common Tools in Industry

Title Plant Software. A software that allows title examiners to access real estate records and other pertinent documents. (eg: Simplifile)
GIS Mapping Software. A program that helps title examiners view different types of geographic information such as boundaries, topography, and streets. (eg: ArcGIS)
Document Retrieval Software. A program that assists title examiners in locating and retrieving relevant documents. (eg: DocuSign)
Title Search Software. A tool that enables title examiners to search for public records related to land. (eg: Title Source)
Document Scanning Software. A software that helps title examiners scan and store documents for future reference. (eg: Adobe Acrobat)
Legal Research Software. A program that assists title examiners in researching legal information regarding land titles. (eg: Westlaw)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Land Title Association (ALTA)
American Land Title Institute (ALTI)
National Association of Title Examiners (NATE)
National Land Title Association (NLTA)
National Institute of Title Examiners (NITE)
National Notary Association (NNA)
American Registry of Professional Land Surveyors (ARPLS)
International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO)
The Appraisal Foundation (TAF)
The American Society of Appraisers (ASA)

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Common Important Terms

Title Insurance. A type of insurance that protects an owner or lender against financial losses from defects in a title to a property.
Abstract of Title. A summary of information about the title to a property, including ownership history and liens or encumbrances.
Deed. A legal document that transfers ownership of a property from one party to another.
Encumbrance. A financial claim, such as a lien or mortgage, against a property.
Lien. A type of legal claim that can be made against a property by someone who is owed money by the owner.
Chain of Title. A record of all transfers of ownership of a property since it was first conveyed.
Property Survey. A detailed description of a property, including its boundaries and features.
Title Search. The process of examining public records to determine the current legal status of a property.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Land Title Examiner?

A Land Title Examiner is a professional who reviews, evaluates, and examines real estate title documents to ensure accuracy and determine legal ownership of property.

What knowledge is required to be a Land Title Examiner?

Land Title Examiners must possess an in-depth knowledge of real estate law, legal terminology, and real estate transactions.

How long does the typical Land Title Exam take?

The length of time for a land title exam can vary depending on the complexity of the transaction and the amount of research required. Generally, a title exam can take anywhere from a few hours to several days to complete.