Title Examiner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of real estate, the role of title examiners has become increasingly critical.

As property transactions grow in number and complexity, the demand for skilled professionals who can meticulously examine and validate property titles escalates.

But what exactly is expected from a title examiner?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager delineating the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the intricate process of title examination,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable title examiner job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Title Examiner Duties and Responsibilities

Title Examiners play a vital role in the real estate industry where they verify the legal status of properties and assist in property transactions.

Their focus lies in ensuring that all property titles are accurate, free of restrictions, and legally binding.

Their typical duties and responsibilities include:

• Examining documentation such as mortgages, liens, judgments, easements, plat books, maps, contracts, and agreements in order to verify factors such as properties’ legal descriptions, ownership, or restrictions
• Preparing reports describing any title encumbrances encountered during searching activities, and outlining actions needed to clear titles
• Verifying accuracy and completeness of land-related documents accepted for registration, preparing rejection notices when documents are not acceptable
• Conferring with realtors, lending institution personnel, buyers, sellers, contractors, surveyors, and courthouse personnel to exchange title-related information or to resolve problems
• Reading search requests in order to ascertain types of title evidences required and to obtain descriptions of properties and names of involved parties
• Checking into previous sales and transactions to ensure that all prior mortgages and liens have been paid off
• Ensuring that all taxes related to a property are up-to-date and paid
• Performing public record searches to collect information about a property
• Preparing detailed reports on the findings of the title examination

 

Title Examiner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Title Examiner to assist with the research and review of property titles to determine their legal status.

The Title Examiner will be responsible for searching public and private records for law firms, real estate agencies, or title insurance companies.

Title Examiner responsibilities include reviewing property titles for accuracy, keeping detailed records of the title search process, and reporting any discrepancies in property titles.

The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for detail, excellent problem-solving skills, and an understanding of legal terminology and procedures involved in title searches.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough search of public records to verify details of titles.
• Review property titles to ensure no discrepancies or issues such as outstanding mortgages or tax liens exist.
• Prepare and issue title commitments and title insurance policies.
• Coordinate with title department to resolve title defects.
• Work closely with escrow and closing departments to ensure smooth transactions.
• Keep detailed records of title search process and maintain a consistent workflow.
• Provide exceptional customer service to internal and external customers.
• Stay updated on industry best practices and legislation changes.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Title Examiner or similar role.
• Knowledge of real estate titles, title insurance, and real estate terms.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong understanding of local, state and federal regulations related to title examinations and real estate transfers.
• Proficiency in industry-specific software programs.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• High school diploma is required; college degree or paralegal certification is preferred.

 

Benefits

• 401(k) plan
• Health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Work-life balance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Title Examiner
• Work Environment: Office setting with potential for remote work. Minimal travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Title Manager or Lead Title Examiner.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Title Examiner Do?

Title Examiners typically work for real estate firms, law firms, or title insurance companies.

Their primary role is to research property records to facilitate real estate transactions.

They examine public and private records, such as deeds, mortgages, and tax records, to confirm legal descriptions of properties and to ensure that properties are free of any encumbrances or restrictions that could affect their sale or purchase.

Title Examiners review these records to ascertain the history of property ownership, verifying details like the legal description of the property, names of previous owners, and the existence of any outstanding claims or liens.

They also prepare reports on the title encumbrances discovered, outlining their impact on the property’s use or resale.

Part of their job may also include collaborating with real estate attorneys to resolve any title discrepancies that may arise.

Their work is crucial in ensuring a smooth property transaction and protecting the rights of all parties involved.

 

Title Examiner Qualifications and Skills

A competent Title Examiner should possess the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, including:

• Legal expertise, specifically in property law, to scrutinize property title deeds accurately.
• Strong research skills to efficiently investigate public records and legal documents related to a property’s title.
• Detail-oriented to ensure no detail is overlooked during the title examination process.
• Excellent communication skills to clearly and effectively convey the results of the title examination to interested parties.
• Time management skills to process multiple title examinations in a timely and efficient manner.
• Organizational skills to manage a variety of tasks and documents efficiently.
• Problem-solving skills to identify any potential issues in a property title and recommend appropriate solutions.
• Understanding of real estate transactions and mortgage lending to provide accurate and relevant information.

 

Title Examiner Experience Requirements

Title Examiners typically require a High School Diploma or GED, followed by 2 to 3 years of experience in the field of real estate, law, or title insurance.

This experience can be gained through internship programs, part-time roles, or entry-level positions in title insurance companies or law firms that deal with real estate transactions.

Candidates who have worked in roles such as Title Clerk, Title Assistant, or Real Estate Paralegal often have the necessary background to transition into a Title Examiner role.

They should have developed a solid understanding of property laws, legal documents, and title search processes.

Title Examiners with more than 3 years of experience typically have a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of title examination, including researching property histories, identifying legal barriers to a sale, and preparing reports on title findings.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have significant expertise in the field and may have managed complex cases or supervised junior examiners.

They could be well-positioned for advanced roles such as Title Officer, Title Manager, or other leadership positions within a title insurance company or real estate firm.

 

Title Examiner Education and Training Requirements

Title Examiners typically need a high school diploma or equivalent to start their career.

However, many employers prefer candidates with an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field like business administration, law, or real estate.

Title Examiners must have a comprehensive understanding of property laws, contract laws, and excellent research skills.

Hence, specific courses in real estate law, property rights, contracts, and similar subjects are beneficial.

On-the-job training is an essential part of a Title Examiner’s career, where they learn the specifics of property searches, title laws, and record-keeping practices.

This practical experience is often provided by the employers and varies in duration and depth depending on the complexities of the job role and the employer’s requirements.

Professional certification, though not always required, can enhance job prospects.

Certifications such as the Certified Title Examiner (CTE) or the American Land Title Association certification can demonstrate a Title Examiner’s competence and commitment to their profession.

Continuous education is crucial as Title Examiners must stay updated with changes in laws and regulations related to property titles, land deeds, and estate laws.

This ongoing learning can come from professional development courses, seminars, or workshops.

 

Title Examiner Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Title Examiner is approximately $48,601 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ greatly based on experience, location, and the employing company.

 

Title Examiner Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Title Examiner need?

A Title Examiner should have strong research and analytical skills to effectively examine property titles, public records and legal documents.

They should have attention to detail to spot issues in property titles such as liens or outstanding mortgages.

Excellent communication skills are also crucial for interacting with clients, attorneys and real estate professionals.

 

Do Title Examiners need a degree?

While a specific degree is not always necessary for becoming a Title Examiner, most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as law or real estate.

Some states also require Title Examiners to be licensed.

This often requires passing a state-administered exam and completing a specified amount of continuing education courses.

 

What should you look for in a Title Examiner resume?

In a Title Examiner resume, it’s important to look for experience in researching public records and preparing reports on property titles.

The applicant should also demonstrate understanding of legal terminology and real estate laws.

Evidence of strong analytical skills and attention to detail is another key factor to consider.

 

What qualities make a good Title Examiner?

A good Title Examiner should be detail-oriented and thorough as the accuracy of their work directly impacts real estate transactions.

They need strong analytical abilities to interpret complex legal documents and public records.

Good communication skills are also necessary to effectively interact with clients, real estate professionals and attorneys.

 

Is it difficult to hire Title Examiners?

It can be challenging to hire Title Examiners as the role requires a unique set of skills including a deep understanding of legal and real estate terminology, excellent research skills, and attention to detail.

To attract top candidates, you should offer competitive pay and opportunities for professional development.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on what it truly entails to be a title examiner.

And you know what?

It’s not just about reviewing titles.

It’s about ensuring the seamless transition of property ownership, one title examination at a time.

Equipped with our go-to title examiner job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to dive in.

But why stop at the surface?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your direct route to creating accurate job listings or fine-tuning your resume to precision.

Remember:

Every title examination is a piece of the larger property puzzle.

Let’s piece that puzzle together. Hand in hand.

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