Maryland buyers & sellers
Your home. Your closing.
A clearer next step.
Understand the title work, prepare your numbers, and stay connected with a Maryland settlement team that knows your transaction.
What does a title company do?
A home purchase involves more than exchanging keys. Title Smart coordinates title review, settlement preparation, and communication among the people involved in the closing. We help identify information that needs attention before signing and explain the next steps for your file.
Based in Timonium, we serve Baltimore County and Maryland transactions. Our settlement team works with you, your agent, and your lender throughout the process.
For buyers: prepare your cash to close
Bring together your purchase price, loan details, deposit, and expected closing date. Our buyer worksheet helps organize a planning estimate so you can discuss the assumptions with your lender and Title Smart.
Ask which charges are estimates, which figures are confirmed, and whether any contract credits or exemptions apply to your situation. Your lender and settlement team will provide the final figures for the transaction.
For sellers: understand your proceeds
Your sale price is only the starting point. Mortgage payoffs, contract credits, compensation, taxes, and other transaction charges affect what remains after closing. Use the seller net sheet to compare scenarios, then have the actual payoff and closing figures confirmed.
Let your team know early about ownership changes, an estate or trust, an existing lien, or documents you are unsure about. The details needed depend on the property and the transaction.
Maryland title insurance questions
Does my lender's title insurance protect me?
A lender's policy protects the lender's interest. An owner's policy provides separate coverage for the owner, subject to the policy's terms and exclusions. Ask to compare available coverage and review the exceptions before closing.
How much is title insurance in Maryland?
The premium depends on the applicable filed rate, coverage amount, policy selection, and any eligible discount. Settlement service fees are separate. Request an itemized estimate; ask whether a prior policy or buying owner and lender coverage together affects the premium.
Can I choose my title company?
Maryland Insurance Administration guidance explains that the buyer chooses the title company and may compare providers' fees and coverage. Ask us for the information you need to make an informed choice.
Consumer reference: Maryland Insurance Administration — Title Insurance. Policy terms and your transaction determine coverage and charges.
Useful before settlement
Before sending funds, call your settlement team using a trusted number to verify instructions. Do not rely on an unexpected email announcing a change.