Do you want to make sure that your title insurance policy truly covers you? Here are some tips I've received from different title insurance representatives in recent months...
1. Ensure that you get the CLTA/ALTA Homeowner's Policy (not the "Owner's Policy").
The two principal forms of title policies are the California Land Title Association (CLTA) policy and the American Land Title Association (ALTA) policy. The basic difference is that the CLTA policy only provides very limited insurance against defects, liens and encumbrances which are not part of the public record, while the ALTA policy includes greater coverage against several (but not all) off-record matters. With all the foreclosures and distressed properties in this marketplace, some title companies are only issuing the standard CLTA policy -especially on bank-owned foreclosures (REOs). I have been told that this coverage is simply insufficient.
2. Be certain that your policy is issued "Without Western Regional Exceptions."
As a San Diego home buyer, you should be aware of certain exceptions to your title insurance coverage. I have been told that the "Western Regional Exceptions" include some of the most common issues that manifest into claims. Look for the following verbiage in Schedule B of your preliminary title report. These "Western Regional Exceptions" exclude:
Some title companies will issue the CLTA/ALTA Homeowner's Policy, but then include these exceptions later in the report - which eliminates the most important coverage. I have been told by several title representatives that a it's a good idea (when your property is located in San Diego County) to write "without western regional exceptions" where title services are selected on the purchase contract. Then, be sure to review your preliminary title report to make sure that the title company is issuing you the correct policy.
Also Read: How to Read and Understand Your Preliminary Title Report
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Justin Gramm is the founder and principal broker of Globella Buyers Realty, your San Diego Exclusive Buyer Brokerage. He also writes this blog, "For San Diego Home Buyers."
Exclusive Buyer Agents do not list homes for sale and never represent sellers. They have no "inventory" to try to sell you. They can represent you in purchasing any home. They are specialists at representing buyers only on the buyers' side of the transaction. Exclusive Buyer Agents work to get buyers the best price and terms when they buy a home.
If you have excellent credit and plan to buy a home or condo in San Diego County within 90 days, contact Justin Gramm to hire an agent on your side of the transaction. Call Justin at (858) 437-2662 or E-mail.
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