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The Title Examination
By Attorney Christopher Carreira In Massachusetts, a title examination involves searching at least 50 years of records related to a property at the Registry of Deeds, the Equity Court, the Bankruptcy Court, and even the Probate and Family Court. The purpose of this...
Taking Title from Estates in Massachusett
A brief summary By: Mark Jones, Esq., Associate Senior Underwriting Counsel Stewart Title Company A common question that comes up in underwriting title insurance is how do we take title from the estate of a deceased person? There are typically three main ways that we...
Quick Tips To Get Your Summer Garden Blooming
Spring has sprung and today is the first official day of summer. If you are finally finding time to tend your garden, don’t feel guilty â just get dirty!
The Importance of Deed Acknowledgements in Real Estate Transactions
In the world of real estate transactions, the significance of acknowledgements cannot be overstated. Whether you're a notary, a title examiner, or a real estate professional, understanding the requirements and potential pitfalls of acknowledgements is crucial. In this...
Navigating Power of Attorney in Real Estate Transactions
In real estate transactions, the use of a power of attorney can be a critical tool, especially when the principal is unable to be physically present to sign documents. Understanding the nuances of power of attorney in real estate transactions is crucial for all...
Recent Study Highlights Growing Significance of Fraud and Forgery Claims
By Zachary Greenfield, Esq., Underwriting Counsel, Stewart Title Insurance Company According to a recent study by consulting and actuarial group Milliman for the American Land Title Association, from 2013 to 2022, title insurance underwriters handled more than...
Equitable Mortgages in Massachusetts—What are they and how to “release” them from record title
By Mark A. Jones, Assoc. Senior Underwriting Counsel, Stewart Title Insurance Company Whenever reviewing title examinations, when we see a traditional recorded mortgage, we all know the process of getting the mortgage released of record. The payoff is ordered, funds...
Which Is Better : 15-Year Fixed Rate Mortgage Or 30-Year Fixed Rate Mortgage?
Which suits you best? The 15-year fixed rate mortgage or the 30-year one? These tips may help you decide.
Simple Real Estate Definitions : Right To Cancel
Refinancing homeowners are granted a 3-day “cooling off” period.
Is An FHA Mortgage Better Than A Conforming One?
The FHA is insuring a greater percentage of loans than during any time in recent history. In 2006, it insured roughly 5 percent of the purchase mortgage market. Today, it insures one-quarter. “Going FHA” is more common than ever before — but is it better?