The following article, prepared by A.M. Best, gives an assessment of the state of the Title Insurance industry in 2009. The general view is that headwinds will exist in 2010, but that the pricing environment may improve, and the payout to agents may decline. “While the title industry’s premium volume and profitability deteriorated significantly in […]
The following is a letter regarding proposed legislation to bring a “public option” to title insurance, similar to that proposed in healthcare. If you do not agree with it, let your representatives know. November 30, 2009 Dear members, As you may know, Assemblyman Richard Brodsky (D-Westchester), has introduced legislation to create a “public option” for […]
January 1, 2010 Changes Go Into Effect To Protect The Buyer At Closing The buyer in a real estate transaction has often felt like a puppet on a string at the closing table, when unforeseen charges come up that were no where to be found on the good faith estimate. To protect the consumer from […]
OVERVIEW A Mechanics’ Lien is an effective remedy for contractors, subcontractors, and others involved in the construction or improvement of real estate to resolve payment problems. If a service or materials provider records a Mechanics’ Lien against the real estate being improved, the owner can not easily sell or refinance the property without first paying […]
It’s Not Just Health InsuranceWith all of the debate currently going on surrounding the Obama health care bill and the controversial public option, in some quarters the idea has been floated for a similar option when it comes to title insurance. The same arguments that will most likely keep a public option out of health […]
Why Is Title Insurance Required? For those new to the home buying arena, title insurance provides you and your lender with the peace of mind that there is no problem with you taking “clear” title to the home. What this means is that no one has any claims on the property, whether it be for […]
Letter From The Executive Suite My name is Michael Haltman, and I am the CEO of Hallmark Abstract Service. I wanted to take the opportunity in this inaugural article to once again speak to the commitment of this firm, from my office on down, to serving the needs of our clients. Our firm motto, “We treat […]
