How to Become a Real Estate Title Closer

Real estate title closers must review property records before the sale closes.

A career as a real estate title closer requires college level coursework and successful scores on a real estate-related examination in most states. A real estate title closer works with a title-clearing company to review all legal documents related to a piece of real estate property. All homes, vacant land and commercial property must pass a real estate title review before the sale is approved and closed. Title closers work in conjunction with real estate brokers, financial lenders, buyers and county government. The real estate professional must review county tax payment records, land transfers and deeds during the titling process.

Instructions

1. Earn a high school diploma or an equivalency GED from an accredited agency. Proof of graduation is required to obtain a real estate title closer certificate and licensure.

2. Earn an associate's degree in real estate. Take courses pertaining to lending, loans and mortgages, legal documentation, and escrow laws.

3. Take real estate sales courses, and pass the required state real estate sales examination. Fees are charged to take the examination and for a mandatory background screening. Employers do not always require a real estate sales license in order to be a title closer, but the additional certification and licensure increases employment opportunities.

4. Work as an apprentice or in an entry-level position for a title-closing company. Most companies require an apprenticeship or probationary period with a mentor before working as a real estate title closer.

5. Register and complete continuing education courses as required by the state or current employer. Laws and guidelines governing the procedures of real estate and titling change, and industry professionals must stay informed to prevent errors and reduce liability

Tips & Warnings

• Speak with a real estate tile closer for a detailed career overview and salary expectations before beginning coursework.

• Individuals with felony records and convictions for certain types of misdemeanors will not be permitted to become title closers. Some titling companies also run a credit check before hiring and do not consider candidates with below-average credit scores.

References

• Real Estate Career Courses and Information
• Titling Careers
• Real Estate Title Closer Information