I’ve had clients ask if they could close on property without involving the title company to avoid the fees associated, I do not recommend that route.

The Title Company’s job once an offer has been executed (signed by both buyer, and seller and executed by the final signers’ agent), is to take charge of the file. They accept the buyers’ Earnest Money (EM) and keep it in their escrow account and typically credit it to the purchase of the home at closing. If there is financing, they will coordinate with the lender to schedule appraisals and ensure all documents are secured. They will order survey (ask about adding the Elevation Certificate (EC) at the same time, you will need this to pull insurance quotes) if needed. They will ensure that no other party has any claim to the asset. See the Title Policy Calculator from Stewart Title. Historically, the sellers pay the Title Policy, but it is negotiable. I have had wonderful experiences with both Southland and Stewart Title Galveston locations. If you are buying coastal property, I highly recommend a coastal Title Company