So, who makes sure your title is squeaky clean before you sign on the dotted line? Enter the title company, the behind-the-scenes MVP of real estate. What Does a Title Company Actually Do? Think of them as the FBI of homeownership. Their job is to dig through decades of records to make sure the home you’re buying (or selling) has a clear title. Here’s how they do it: Title Search – They pull all historical records on the property to check for unpaid taxes, old liens, ownership disputes, or anything shady. Title Insurance Issuance – Once they confirm the title is clean, they issue an insurance policy to protect against any surprise claims that pop up after the sale. Closing Coordination – The title company collects and distributes the money, handles paperwork, and makes sure everything is legally sound before closing day. Recording the Deed – After closing, they make sure the sale is officially recorded with the county, so it’s legally yours. If the title company finds an issue, they work with the seller to fix it before the sale can go through. Because trust me, you do NOT want to buy a home and later find out someone’s ex-step-uncle still technically owns half of your backyard.
Now, let’s talk about how real estate closings are different in Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana. Because let me tell you—if you’ve ever closed a deal in Illinois, you know it’s like playing Monopoly on expert mode.
Michigan: The Laid-Back, No-Attorney Closing State
Title companies handle the closing. No attorney required. (Unless you really want one.)
Closings are usually smooth, quick, and efficient—sometimes wrapped up in an hour.
Buyers and sellers meet at the title company, sign papers, money changes hands, and BAM—you own a house.
Mortgage payoffs, taxes, and all final documents are handled by the title company.
Why this is great:
Michigan real estate closings tend to be simpler and less expensive than in other states. The title company does all the heavy lifting, and you don’t need to pay an attorney to babysit the transaction.
Illinois: Welcome to Lawyer Land
Unlike Michigan, Illinois requires an attorney for both the buyer and the seller.
The process takes longer and is more expensive because of attorney involvement.
Title companies still play a role, but they work with attorneys rather than leading the closing.
The whole process can feel more complicated and drawn out compared to Michigan.
Why this is… not great:
More cooks in the kitchen = more delays, more fees, and more headaches. If you’re used to Michigan’s easygoing closings, Illinois will feel like you just stepped into a legal drama.
Indiana: The Hybrid Model
Indiana is kind of in between Michigan and Illinois.
Attorneys are not required, but some buyers and sellers choose to have one.
Title companies handle the closing, but some lenders prefer attorney involvement.
The process is relatively straightforward and fast, but can get more complex depending on the deal.
Why this is decent:
Indiana offers flexibility—if you want an attorney, go for it. If you want a Michigan-style quick closing, that’s possible too.
Christine is a Real Estate Agent based in Niles MI.
She has sold more than 800 Million Dollars in Real Estate.
She is a great woman of Real Estate.
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