Production Underwriting Attorney - Westcor Land Title Insurance Company

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Essential Functions:

· 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.

Competencies:

· 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)

Physical Demands:

This role is mostly sedentary and requires the ability to sit for long periods each day. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate orally and through e-mail. The employee uses hands and fingers to type, handle, and reach. The ability to operate office machinery such as computer, phone, copier, printer, etc. in the commission of daily duties. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

However, the candidate should also be prepared to travel within Texas and the 4 surrounding states by either car or airline, and to stand or sit for extended periods to teach courses for real estate agents, escrow officers or attorneys.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the office work environment is usually moderate. However, it is expected that the person in this position will often work remotely and telecommute.

Ardán offers some great perks:

• Health, dental, and vision benefits
• Employer paid disability and life insurance
• Flexible spending accounts 
• 401K with company match 
• Paid time off and company paid holidays
• Wellness resources

Note: This job description is not intended to be an exhausted list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the job.