Who Chooses the Title Company in Florida?

There is no single statewide rule that the buyer or seller always chooses the title company in a Florida home sale. The parties negotiate the title and closing terms, and the signed purchase contract records their agreement.

Read the provisions on who pays for the owner's title insurance policy, title search, and closing services; who selects the closing agent; and where the escrow deposit is held. A local custom may influence an offer, but it does not replace the contract. The buyer's lender may also have requirements for its own loan policy and closing process.

The escrow holder and the closing or title agent can be the same business, but the roles should be identified clearly. If a title company or attorney is named as escrow holder, Florida's licensee rules call for its name, address, and telephone number in the contract. A blank or “to be determined” entry can cause avoidable confusion.

“Who will provide the title work, hold the deposit, conduct closing, and pay each related charge under this offer?” If the answers are unclear, have the agent discuss the terms with the other party before the contract is executed. Compare actual quotes and service arrangements when the choice is open.

Christine Matus PA coordinates with the selected title team, tracks escrow confirmation and title milestones, and keeps the agent informed. Contact Christine.

Source: Florida Realtors escrow guidance.