ATG Title News

Key Takeaways Title companies, settlement agents, and closing attorneys are essential infrastructure in a real estate transaction — declared essential services in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Remote Online Notarization (RON) expanded rapidly during COVID-19, allowing closings to proceed without in-person meetings. Wire fraud risks increased during the pandemic as bad actors exploited remote communication norms […]

Key Takeaways Title defects, undisclosed heirs, forged deeds, and clerical recording errors can all surface after closing and threaten your ownership of the property. Wire fraud, mechanic’s liens, and unpaid HOA dues are among the most common post-closing surprises that cost homeowners money. Owner’s title insurance is the one protection that covers all of these

Key Takeaways Wire fraud works by scammers hijacking the email of a real estate or title agent and sending fake wire instructions just before closing. Always verify wire instructions by phone using a number you look up yourself — never the number in the email. Wire funds the day before closing, never the day of,