SCHUTT LAW FIRM, P.A.
Phone: 239.540.7007
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Home Closing 101
Do you know what to expect on closing day?
Most people don’t. And that can lead to some uneasiness. But help is here. The American Land Title Association, or ALTA, has created a website featuring information every homebuyer can use to help familiarize themselves with the closing process before walking into the closing

The Home Closing 101 Site
At Home Closing 101 you will find information you can use to prepare yourself for closing. The site covers topics such as title insurance, escrow fees and closing costs. So when the time comes to sign on the dotted line you’ll feel fully prepared.

Home Closing 101 is especially helpful for first time buyers. Buying a house is an exciting time and the more you know about the process, the more relaxed you’ll be going through it. Spend a little time on the site and you can walk through the home buying process, receiving explanations for each step and helpful hints on how to find the right people to help you on your journey to homeownership.

Click here to start learning about the home buying process.

What Is American Land Title Association (ALTA)?
Founded in 1907, ALTA is the national trade association and voice of the title insurance industry. ALTA members search, review and insure land titles to protect home buyers and mortgage lenders who invest in real estate.

ALTA members advocate safe and efficient transfer of real estate and insist on high standards when searching land title records and preparing insurance documents. The industry seeks to eliminate risk before insuring, which provides homebuyers with the best possible chance of avoiding land title problems. But, title difficulties can and do occur, and members offer both Owner’s and Lender’s title insurance policies as effective safeguards.

Click here to visit the ALTA website.

About Stewart Title Insurance
Stewart (NYSE: STC) is a leading provider of real estate services, including global residential and commercial title insurance, escrow and settlement services, lender services, underwriting, specialty insurance and other solutions that facilitate successful real estate transactions. Stewart offers personalized service, industry expertise and customized solutions for virtually any type of real estate transaction, through our direct operations, network of approved agencies and other companies within the Stewart family. Through a focus on integrity, smart growth and conservative management, Stewart remains committed to serving our customers, innovating and improving to meet their needs in an ever-changing market. 

Please click on the link below for more information:

WHY TITLE INSURANCE?

Owning real estate is one of the most precious values of freedom in this country. You want the assurance that the property you are buying will be yours. Other than your mortgage holder, no one else should have any claims or restrictions against your home.

Title insurance is issued after a careful examination of the public records. But even the most thorough search cannot absolutely assure that no title faults are present, despite the knowledge and experience of professional title examiners. In addition to matters shown by public records, other title problems may exist that cannot be disclosed in a search. Title insurance eliminates any risks and losses caused by faults in title from an event that occurred before you owned the property.

Title insurance is different from other types of insurance in that it protects you, the insured, from a loss that may occur from matters or faults from the past. Other types of insurance such as auto, life, or health cover you against losses that may occur in the future. Title insurance does not protect against any future faults, but does protect you from risks or undiscovered interests. Another difference is that you pay a one-time premium for a policy that remains effective until the property is sold to a new owner - even if that doesn't occur for decades.

What is a Lender's Policy?

A lender's policy, also known as a loan policy or a mortgage policy, protects the lender against loss due to unknown title defects. It also protects the lender's interest from certain matters which may exist, but may not be known at the time of the sale.

This policy only protects the lender's interest. It does not protect the purchaser. That is why a real estate purchaser needs an owner's policy.

What is an owner's policy?

An owner's policy protects you, the purchaser, against a loss that may occur from a fault in the ownership or interest you have in the property. You should protect the equity in your new home with a title policy.

What does an owner's policy provide?

- Protection from financial loss due to demands that may be charged against the title to your home, up to the cost of the title policy.
- Payment of legal costs if the title insurer has to defend your title against a covered claim.
- Payment of successful claims against the title to your home covered by the policy, up to the cost of the policy.

Why the seller needs to provide title insurance?

Any purchaser will need evidence that his investment in your property is free of title defects. The title insurance policy that you provide the purchaser is a guarantee that you are selling a clear title to your real estate, unencumbered by any legal attachments that might limit or jeopardize ownership. It will reassure your purchaser that he or she is protected from any risks or losses and could help you close your deal.

Why the buyer needs title insurance?

Without title insurance, you may not be fully protected against errors in public records, hidden defects not disclosed by the public records, or mistakes in examination of the title. As a result, you may be held fully accountable for any prior liens, judgments or claims brought against your new property. If this should occur, your title policy insures that you will be defended at no cost against all covered claims up to the amount of the policy.

How much does title insurance cost?

The insurance commission approves and controls the premiums for title insurance policies. The premiums are paid only once and the cost depends upon the purchase price of the property and the policy amount must be equal to the purchase price.

What does title insurance protect from?

  • Fraud
  • Adverse possession
  • Rights of divorced parties
  • Deeds by minors
  • Undisclosed Heirs
  • Errors in tax records
  • False affidavits of death or heirship
  • Probate matters
  • Deeds and wills by persons of unsound mind
  • Conveyances by undisclosed divorced spouses
  • Forfeitures of real property due to criminal acts
  • Deeds by persons falsely representing their marital status
  • Documents executed by a revoked or expired Power of Attorney
  • Defective acknowledgements due to improper or expired notarization
  • Mistakes and omissions resulting in improper abstracting
  • Forged deeds, mortgages, wills, releases and other documents
  • False impersonation of the true land owner
10/07/2023
Discover essential techniques for staging a commercial space effectively. Learn how to attract tenants and maximize its potential with these staging practices from Stewart: Schutt Law in Fort Myers.

Staging a commercial space for potential tenants involves more than just arranging furniture – it's about showcasing the potential of the space and enticing businesses to call it home. Whether you're renting out an office, retail, or creative space, the way you present it can significantly impact its appeal. In this guide, we'll delve into expert tips tailored to landlords and property owners who want to elevate their rental space and attract the right tenants.

Secure your property rights now, and don't leave your real estate investment vulnerable. Learn why title insurance is crucial in protecting your real estate deals. Reach out to Schutt Law in Fort Myers at (239) 540-7007 for top-notch title services that guarantee peace of mind.

1. Setting the Right First Impression

The entrance of your rental space is your first opportunity to make an impression. Ensure it's welcoming and aligned with the identity of the businesses you're targeting. Incorporate clean signage, attractive lighting, and a reception area that gives a glimpse of the space's potential. This initial touchpoint can set the tone for what lies ahead.

2. Flexible Layouts for Diverse Needs

A versatile layout appeals to a broader range of tenants. Create an open layout that can be adapted to various businesses' needs, whether it's for collaborative work, individual offices, or retail displays. Highlight the flexibility of the space by incorporating movable furniture and partitions, demonstrating its potential to accommodate different business models.

3. Illuminating Ambiance

Lighting plays a significant role in how potential tenants perceive a space. Emphasize natural light by showcasing ample windows. Illuminate key areas such as workstations, display areas, and meeting spaces with well-placed artificial lighting. A well-lit space exudes positivity and promotes productivity, which is a compelling selling point.

4. Brand-Friendly Canvas

While showcasing potential, leave room for tenants to visualize their branding and identity. Opt for neutral color schemes that provide a blank canvas for various businesses to imprint their personalities. Minimalistic decor and finishes create an environment where tenants can easily make the space their own.

5. Adaptable Spaces for Innovation

In the modern business landscape, adaptability is crucial. Design your rental space with flexible zones that can cater to different business needs. Create nooks for collaboration, private meeting rooms, and breakout spaces that cater to diverse work styles. An area that can evolve with a tenant's growing needs is an attractive proposition.

Invest wisely and protect completely. Your real estate investment deserves the best protection. Connect with Schutt Law in Fort Myers at (239) 540-7007 to explore their exceptional title services like title searches and insurance and confidently safeguard your property rights.

6. Incorporating Natural Elements

Greenery can have a transformative effect on a space. Consider introducing indoor plants that add a touch of nature and vibrancy. Plants create a refreshing atmosphere, making the space more inviting and appealing to potential tenants.

7. Future-Ready Technology

Technology is an integral part of any business operation. Ensure your rental space is equipped with modern tech infrastructure, including ample power outlets, high-speed internet connectivity, and wiring for various devices. A tech-ready space can be a significant selling point for tech-savvy businesses.

8. Attending to Detail

Small details contribute to the overall impression of a space's quality. Pay attention to the finishes, materials, and textures used. Choose durable materials that require minimal maintenance, ensuring that your rental space remains appealing to tenants in the long run.

9. Balancing Privacy and Collaboration

Create a balanced environment that offers both open, collaborative areas and private spaces. Provide glass partitions for enclosed meeting rooms to ensure confidentiality while maintaining visual connection. Offering a mix of settings appeals to businesses with varied work styles.

10. Maintaining Appeal

Remember that the presentation of your rental space doesn't end once a tenant is found. Regular maintenance and updates are essential to maintain the space's appeal. Invest in routine upkeep to ensure your rental property remains a desirable choice for potential tenants. Staging a commercial space effectively can lead to higher demand and attract the right tenants. By applying these tailored staging practices, you can elevate your space's appeal, make it stand out in a competitive market, and ultimately secure tenants who see its potential as their business home.

Experience stress-free homebuying and make your home purchase worry-free with Schutt Law's impeccable title services in Fort Myers. Dial (239) 540-7007 to learn about title insurance's significance and ensure a smooth real estate transaction. Your investment, their expertise – a perfect match.