Contract to Closing

Once there is a full executed contract in place, the Bravo Title and Closing Team will manage every aspect of the contract to closing process in order to ensure a smooth and successful closing without any last minute surprises.

a) Title Company vs. Real Estate Law Firm

There is a lot of discussion about whether to use a Title Company or Real Estate Attorney for the closing of your real estate transaction. In Florida, both Real Estate Attorneys as well as licensed Title Agencies can issue title insurance policies and perform all closing related duties, including preparation of documents that are incidental to closing. With respect to the closing services and title insurance related services performed (title search, examination, insurance issuance, closing, escrow, etc.) you will find absolutely no difference between the two and you can expect to pay a little bit more for a real estate attorney in additional fees.

For more complicated transactions or where there may be disagreements or legal matters it certainly may make sense to employ a real estate attorney. Likewise, if you are not represented by a real estate broker you may want to consider hiring an attorney to assist with the contract stage.

Bravo has an experienced real estate attorney we can bring into the transaction should the need arise. In addition, Bravo Title is backed and supported by its Underwriter’s attorney.

Our number one priority is to ensure a successful sale and closing, in a manner that the interests of our customers are protected and looked after.

b) Inspections

A buyer in a residential real estate transaction is entitled to have any number of inspections performed, in accordance with the contract. Usually an inspection report and repair request will be submitted to the Seller or Seller’s agent and the Seller then has to comply in accordance with the contract.

Inspection time lines are very important and since everything is negotiable it is important that you pay specific attention to the parts of the contract that refer to inspections and repairs.

c) The Closing

The closing will usually take place at the offices of a real estate firm, title company or attorney. At the closing the buyer and seller will sign the necessary documents to convey title to the buyer, free and clear of any liens and encumbrances.

All the sellers of record must appear in person, unless a properly executed power of attorney exists. Be prepared to bring with you identification, plus any property keys you may still have.

At the time of closing ownership is transferred from the seller to the buyer and you will need to be completely moved out of the house or condo at this point.

The closing agent (title company or attorney) will contact you ahead of closing to obtain any information they may need, plus provide you with details about the closing.