News & Articles

Can I Choose My Own Title Company In Florida?

Sol Title | Clermont Based | $0 Settlement Fee | Mobile Closings Available

Many Florida homebuyers and sellers don’t realize they may have the ability to choose their own title company.

In fact, one of the most common misconceptions in real estate is that buyers and sellers must use whichever title company is suggested by a Realtor, lender, builder, or another party involved in the transaction.

While recommendations can be valuable, consumers should understand that they often have the option to shop for title and closing services just like they would shop for a mortgage, insurance policy, or home inspection.

What Does A Title Company Do?

Before discussing who chooses the title company, it helps to understand what a title company actually does.

A title company helps facilitate the closing process by:

Conducting a title search
Identifying liens, judgments, or ownership issues
Issuing title insurance policies
Managing escrow funds
Preparing settlement documents
Coordinating with buyers, sellers, lenders, and Realtors
Facilitating the closing and transfer of ownership

The title company plays an important role in helping ensure the transaction closes properly and that ownership rights are protected.

Seller’s Net Proceeds Calculator Resource

One of the services that title companies will typically keep behind a paywall, or require you to contact them directly for is….. seller’s net proceeds net sheets. Sol Title makes net sheets available for the general public to use without requiring anyone using the calculator to do business with Sol. You just need a price, address, and any relevant information, and you can get accurate estimates for your real estate equity. Find that free calculator HERE.

Who Typically Chooses The Title Company In Florida?

The answer depends on the transaction.

In many Florida real estate transactions, the contract specifies which party selects and pays for certain title-related services.

In some areas of Florida, it is common for the seller to select the title company. In other situations, buyers may negotiate the right to choose the title company as part of the contract.

Because every transaction is different, consumers should carefully review their contract and discuss their options with their real estate professional before signing.

Do I Have To Use The Title Company Recommended By My Realtor?

Not necessarily.

Many Realtors have preferred title companies they enjoy working with because of past experiences, communication, service quality, or convenience.

However, a recommendation is not always a requirement.

Consumers should feel comfortable asking questions such as:

What title company is being recommended?
Why is that company being recommended?
What fees will be charged?
Are there alternative options available?
Can I compare closing costs?
Can I shop title fees?

A good real estate professional should welcome those questions and help you make an informed decision.

Why Shopping For Title Services Matters

Many buyers and sellers spend considerable time comparing mortgage rates, homeowners insurance policies, and home inspection companies.

Yet very few consumers think to compare title companies.

While title insurance rates in Florida are largely regulated, settlement fees, closing fees, and service-related costs can vary significantly between companies. Sometimes the difference can result in a combined 1-3K between buyer and seller related fees. Sol Title proudly gives a $0 settlement fee service for both buyer and seller.

Taking a few minutes to compare providers may help consumers better understand their available options and potentially reduce certain closing expenses.

Questions To Ask Before Choosing A Title Company

Before selecting a title company, consider asking:

How experienced is the company?
Are attorneys available if questions arise?
What are the settlement and closing fees?
Is mobile closing available?
How responsive is the closing team?
What title insurance underwriters do they work with?
Do they provide updates throughout the transaction?

Choosing a title company is about more than price alone. Communication, accuracy, responsiveness, and experience all play important roles in creating a smooth closing experience.

Why More Florida Buyers, Sellers, and Realtors Are Comparing Title Companies

Today’s consumers have access to more information than ever before.

Many buyers and sellers are learning that title companies can differ in service, communication, convenience, and closing costs.

By understanding their options and asking questions early in the process, consumers can make more informed decisions about who handles one of the most important transactions of their lives.