Real estate deals should feel exciting, not exhausting. When legal documents start piling up, things can slow down fast. The good news? Realtors have the power to keep the process moving—especially when working with attorneys. Things that might seem like a no-brainer are easy to forget but put a wrench in the process. A few simple steps on your end can make a huge difference in how quickly a deal gets to closing.
1. Get the Client’s Name 100% Right
Legal documents don’t leave room for errors. Even a tiny typo in a client’s name can stall a transaction or cause confusion over who’s legally responsible. Plus, many people go by nicknames, middle names, or DBAs.
How to do it right:
Check their ID: Always use the full legal name from an official source, like a driver’s license. Middle initials matter.
Watch for nicknames: If a client goes by “Bill” but their legal name is “William,” use what’s on their ID.
Keep it consistent: The name should match across every document—contracts, loan applications, title paperwork—so nothing gets flagged down the line.
2. Provide Reliable Contact Information
Attorneys need to reach clients quickly. If an attorney can’t track down a buyer or seller for a signature or clarification, delays are inevitable.
How to do it right:
Give at least two contact options: A primary phone number and email are musts. If they prefer texts or have a secondary number, include those too.
Include their mailing address: If the client’s mailing address is different from the property address, make that clear.
Keep info updated: If a client changes their number or email mid-transaction, let the attorney know immediately.
3. Share Any Prior Title Policy
A previous title policy can speed up the process by shedding light on past liens, easements, or other property issues. Without it, an attorney or title company has to start from scratch—costing extra time and money.
How to do it right:
Ask the seller early: If they have a prior title policy, it should be one of the first things they hand over.
Check your files: If this isn’t the first transaction on the property, see if you already have a copy.
Send it ASAP: The sooner the attorney or title company gets it, the faster they can clear any potential issues.
4. Gather Property-Specific Information
Some properties come with extra layers—HOA rules, estate situations, or zoning quirks. If an attorney doesn’t have all the details upfront, they could run into roadblocks when drafting documents.
How to do it right:
Collect key documents: HOA bylaws, deed restrictions, and any special assessments should be provided upfront.
Highlight unique situations: If the property is tied to a trust, part of an estate sale, or subject to unusual restrictions, let the attorney know early.
Double-check the legal description: Make sure it matches what’s in official records to avoid errors in the contract.
5. Confirm the Client’s Marital Status
Marital status can impact who needs to sign legal documents. In some states, even a spouse who isn’t on the deed may need to be involved.
How to do it right:
Ask upfront: Find out if your client is single, married, divorced, or widowed before contracts get drafted.
Flag any changes: If a client’s marital status changes mid-transaction (like a finalized divorce), let the attorney know immediately.
Get the right signatures: If a spouse’s signature is required but overlooked, it can lead to last-minute delays.
Make Closings Easy with the Right Title Team
Getting a real estate deal across the finish line takes teamwork. At Spectrum Title Services, LLC, we work with realtors and attorneys to keep things moving—so your clients don’t get stuck in legal slowdowns. Ready to close smoothly? Give us a call at 954-727-3347.