In plain English
It collects funds, records documents and makes sure liens are cleared.
The signing agent usually works from instructions from the title or escrow office.
Why it matters
The title company often controls the timeline of a closing. If documents return late or with errors, the area may not release funds or record documents until they are fixed.
Signers who know to direct closing questions to the area get faster answers than asking the signing agent.
Worked example
A title company sends a signing package to the agent and wires funds once the signed documents return.
What to do
- Save the area's phone number from a trusted source early in the deal.
- Ask them what to bring to the signing.
- Send questions about costs or documents to them, not the signing agent.
- Verify any wiring instructions by calling their known number.
- Ask when documents will be recorded.
Common mistakes
- Trusting an emailed change in wiring instructions without a phone check can lead to lost funds.
- Ignoring a request for a payoff or ID document can delay the closing.
- Asking the signing agent about title insurance coverage leads nowhere because the agent cannot explain it.
Not the same as: Loan signing agent
The title company runs the closing and handles funds and recording, while the signing agent only conducts the signing appointment. See Loan signing agent.
Go deeper
- Title Company Terms Explained: A Closing Glossary: Plain definitions of the title and closing terms you will hear: abstract, encumbrance, lien, escrow, proration, payoff letter, commitment and more.
- Owner's vs. Lender's Title Insurance: Two Policies, Two Jobs: Why a home purchase often includes two title insurance policies, who each one protects, what they typically cover and exclude, and when the premium is paid.
Related terms
- Unauthorized practice of law: Giving legal advice or choosing legal documents for someone when you are not a licensed attorney.
- Venue: The state and county where a notarization takes place, written on the certificate.
- Subscribing witness: A person who watches someone else sign a document and then signs it as a witness.
Common questions
What is a title company?
A company that researches property ownership, issues title insurance and often runs the closing.
Can you give an example of title company?
A title company sends a signing package to the agent and wires funds once the signed documents return.
Is the title company on my side?
The title company has duties to the parties in the transaction. For advice about your interests, ask an attorney.
Does the title company always run the closing?
In many transactions it does, but some use attorneys or escrow offices. Your closing paperwork names who is in charge.
General information, not legal advice. Rules vary by state and change; check with your state's commissioning office.