working-metro

Buffalo, NY Area

Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers

Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers are professionals responsible for examining real estate records. Their job description typically includes: 1. Researching and examining public records to determine the property's legal description, ownership history, and any restrictions or encumbrances. 2. Analyzing titles to ensure they are clear and free of defects that could prevent a smooth transfer of property. 3. Providing reports detailing findings from title searches, including any issues that may need to be addressed before a property transaction can proceed. 4. Interpreting deeds, wills, trusts, and other documents to establish chain of title and resolve any discrepancies. 5. Collaborating with attorneys, lenders, real estate agents, and clients to address title-related concerns and facilitate property transactions. 6. Staying updated on relevant laws, regulations, and industry practices to ensure compliance and accuracy in their work. 7. Utilizing specialized software and databases to streamline the search and examination process. 8. Conducting site visits and surveys to verify property boundaries and identify potential issues affecting title. Overall, Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers play a crucial role in the real estate industry by providing essential information and ensuring the smooth transfer of property ownership.

Income Data

This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.

Annual Pay Distribution
Salary

10th percentile

$43,100.00

25th percentile

$46,300.00

median (50th percentile)

$47,770.00

75th percentile

$62,700.00

90th percentile

$89,650.00

Hourly Pay Distribution
Hourly Rate

10th percentile

$20.72

25th percentile

$22.26

median (50th percentile)

$22.97

75th percentile

$30.14

90th percentile

$43.10

Links to Job Listings
Education / Training

Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent for entry-level positions. However, some employers may prefer candidates with an associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field such as real estate, business, or law. Specialized training in title examination, abstracting, and property research is often necessary for this role. On-the-job training is common to familiarize individuals with industry-specific tools, legal documents, and processes. Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and knowledge of real estate laws are vital for success in this profession. Training for Title Examiners, Abstractors, and Searchers usually involves learning about property records, legal documents, and relevant software used in the field. This training can be provided through on-the-job experience, formal programs offered by community colleges or vocational schools, or specialized training courses offered by professional organizations. Additionally, individuals may benefit from gaining practical experience under the supervision of experienced professionals to develop their skills in researching, analyzing titles, and understanding complex property transactions. Ongoing education and staying updated on industry regulations and practices are crucial for maintaining proficiency in this occupation.