Production Underwriting Attorney - Westcor Land Title Insurance Company

Westcor•Austin, TX

10d•Hybrid

About The Position

This role involves working with title examiners, title agents, and other parties in real estate transactions to determine title conditions and insurability. The attorney will analyze recorded documents, explain title matters to customers, identify and resolve title defects, and assess risks to the company. Responsibilities include reviewing surveys and other insurance documents, collaborating with title agents and escrow staff, responding to inquiries, advising agencies on regulatory compliance, preparing and presenting seminars, and drafting underwriting guidelines. The position also serves as a liaison between the Underwriting Department and other Westcor departments.

Requirements

Extensive knowledge of Real Estate Law/ Underwriting Real Estate Transactions in Texas or one of the surrounding 4 states as it relates to real estate, a general understanding of the law regarding probate, intestate succession, marital property, homestead, bankruptcy, contracts, corporate law, and trial and appellate procedure.
At least 5 years’ experience working in title insurance, preferably in Texas or one of the surrounding 4 states (preference will be given to those with greater experience)
Familiarity with the rules and procedures contained in the Texas Basic Manual for Title Insurance and strong legal research skills using Westlaw or Lexis in order to handle unique situations.
Public speaking skills and experience as it relates to drafting and creation of PowerPoints and outlines for professional education courses suitable for real estate agents, escrow officers and attorneys.
Ability to collaborate and act decisively with abstract thinking with creative solutions and strong negotiation skills
Adaptability, Patience, and understanding of customer needs and the pressures they work under (Preference will be given to those evidencing strong people skills)

Nice To Haves

Preference will be given to those with greater experience in title insurance, preferably in Texas or one of the surrounding 4 states
Preference will be given to those evidencing strong people skills

Responsibilities

Works with title examiners and title agents and other parties to the real estate transaction to determine the conditions of the title and insurability by considering the effect of documents such as deeds, mortgages mechanics liens, tax liens, judgments, assessments, probates and other matters of record
Analyze and evaluate pertinent recorded documents for determination of ownership, accurate legal descriptions, and any effect on the title to real estate
Explain chain of title, exceptions, and requirements to customers and managers
Recognize title defects and formulate curative solution
Assess risks and liabilities that may jeopardize the company, and bring these matters to the attention of the local title manager, state title manager or underwriter, as appropriate.
If required by a specific closing file, review surveys prepared on properties and other proposed documents to be insured such as mortgages, mortgage modifications, etc.
Works closely with the title agent and escrow staff to meet deadlines for closings and assist with answering questions related to issuance of the title commitment policies.
Return all calls and emails from all parties to the title transaction in a responsive and timely manner.
Advises title insurance agencies on regulatory compliance.
Prepare and present seminars to title agents and others relating to real estate topics and other relevant matters.
Prepare written underwriting guidelines and memoranda as needed.
Liaison between the Underwriting Department and other departments in Westcor such as Title Plant, Agency/Sales, Claims, and Corporate Legal as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned by Manager or Senior Counsel.