The Spano Method

How the Title Process Works

From initial order to final policy delivery, here’s what happens during a typical title transaction and how Spano Abstract keeps everything moving smoothly.

What Happens Between Contract and Closing

Real estate transactions involve dozens of moving parts. The title process runs parallel to all of this, working behind the scenes to ensure the property can be legally transferred with clear ownership.

At Spano Abstract, we’ve been guiding clients through this process since 1985. Whether you’re a seasoned attorney or a first-time homebuyer, we make the title side of your transaction as straightforward as possible.

1

Order Placement

Same day acknowledgment

The process begins when your attorney or lender places an order for title services, typically after a purchase contract is signed.

What We Need

The Spano Role

We assign a dedicated account executive and title officer to manage your file from start to finish.

2

Title Search

5-10 business days

Our readers conduct a comprehensive search of public records to identify liens, judgments, easements, or encumbrances.

What We Need

The Spano Role

We examine every document in the chain of title to ensure no gaps or unresolved issues exist.

3

Report Preparation

1-2 business days

Attorneys and title officers review findings and prepare a detailed title report explaining what needs resolution.

What We Need

The Spano Role

We identify potential problems and provide clear plans to resolve them with your attorney.

4

Issue Resolution

Varies by complexity

If the search uncovers liens or judgments, they must be resolved before closing can proceed.

What We Need

The Spano Role

We coordinate with lienholders and municipal offices to obtain necessary releases and payoffs.

5

Title Commitment

Ongoing through closing

Once issues are addressed, we issue a title commitment and prepare for the final closing steps.

What We Need

The Spano Role

We confirm payoff amounts, coordinate transfers, and handle last-minute details with all parties.

6

Closing

Closing day

The official transfer of ownership where all legal documents are signed and funds are disbursed.

What We Need

The Spano Role

We work behind the scenes to ensure everything is in order for a seamless transfer of title.

7

Policy Issuance

Delivered at closing

After recording, we issue the final title insurance policies providing long-term protection.

What We Need

The Spano Role

We prepare and deliver final policies that protect against covered risks and future claims.

8

Recording

1-3 business days

Post-closing, the deed and mortgage are officially recorded with the county clerk to make it public record.

What We Need

The Spano Role

We submit and track documents through the recording process, providing immediate confirmation.

Disclaimer: Departmental searches are for information only and are not insured.

Transaction Specialties

Purchase

Transferring ownership with deep 40-60 year chain of title search.

Refinance

Updated searches focused on issues since the original purchase.

Co-op

Unique focus on UCC searches and cooperative corporation liens.

Commercial

Complex multi-parcel, and easement.

Why the Spano Process Works

Efficiency meets experience for a seamless closing experience.

No Handoffs

Work with the same dedicated team from start to finish. We value consistency.

Proactive Updates

We don’t wait for you to chase us. If there’s news, you’ll know immediately.

Solution Oriented

We don’t just report problems—we work with you to solve them at the source.

Typical Transaction Timeline

Week 1

Order placed, title search conducted

Initial processing and data gathering

Week 2

Title examination completed, report delivered

Expert analysis and report generation

Weeks 2-4

Issue resolution (if needed), closing preparation

Active problem solving and coordination

Closing Day

Documents signed, funds disbursed

The final transfer of ownership

Post-Closing

Documents recorded & policies issued

Official public recording and policy delivery