Title Insurance companies used to provide Realtors with an abundance of information.  When I had a client interested in a home which had been on the market for more than several weeks, I would frequently contact a title company and find out how many loans were on the property and their original balance.  Often, that could provide an indication as to how flexible the seller could be.

Title Representatives are provided a commission on each title insurance order.  Although, a loan officer or escrow officer can take me to lunch, a title rep no longer is able to pay for a business lunch.  Although, a loan officer or escrow officer can take me to a sporting event, a title officer can not. Realtors renew their license every four years.  At the time of renewal we provide evidence of the required courses which we have passed.  Title companies can sponsor these educational courses but may no longer provide refreshments, not even a cup of coffee.



Although, home protection policies are typically paid for the by the seller, the insurance coverage benefits the buyer as it covers the working components of the home. There are about a half dozen established home protection companies in the Los Angeles area.  I know of two, which in the event of an E + O (error's and omissions insurance) claim will pay my $5,000 deductible if they are the policy holder.  How do they get away with that? Isn’t that more of an inducement to sway my business than a free lunch?