Question 1

What is title insurance in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Title insurance is a one-time policy that protects property owners and lenders against financial loss from hidden defects in a property's title, such as undisclosed liens, forgery, or ownership disputes. In Florida, title insurance is typically purchased at closing and remains in effect for as long as you or your heirs own the property.

Question 2

What is the difference between owner's title insurance and lender's title insurance?

Accepted Answer

Lender's title insurance protects the mortgage lender's interest in the property and is usually required. Owner's title insurance protects the buyer's equity and is optional but strongly recommended. At Clear Path, we issue both policy types and explain the coverage differences in plain language.

Question 3

How long does a real estate closing take in Florida?

Accepted Answer

A typical Florida real estate closing takes 30 to 45 days from signed contract to keys, though timelines vary depending on financing, title search results, and transaction complexity. Our team works proactively to resolve issues early and keep your closing on schedule.

Question 4

What is a title search and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

A title search examines public records to confirm legal ownership and uncover any liens, judgments, easements, or other encumbrances on a property. It is a critical step in every Florida real estate transaction because it protects buyers and lenders from inheriting someone else's debts or legal disputes.

Question 5

What is FIRPTA and how does it affect foreign buyers or sellers in Florida?

Accepted Answer

FIRPTA (Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act) requires that a portion of the sale price be withheld for federal taxes when a foreign person sells U.S. real property. It affects both buyers and sellers in the transaction. Clear Path has extensive experience coordinating FIRPTA compliance so international closings proceed smoothly.

Question 6

What is a 1031 exchange and can Clear Path help?

Accepted Answer

A 1031 exchange allows real estate investors to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting proceeds from one property into a like-kind property within strict IRS timelines. Clear Path provides title and escrow services aligned with 1031 exchange deadlines, working alongside your qualified intermediary to keep the process on track.

Question 7

Can I close on a Florida property remotely?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Clear Path offers remote online closings using secure, court-recognized technology that meets all Florida legal requirements. This is especially popular with out-of-state buyers, international investors, and busy professionals.

Question 8

Do you offer bilingual services?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Our team is fully bilingual in English and Spanish. We provide bilingual communication throughout the entire closing process, from initial consultation through final signing. This makes us a trusted title company for Miami's diverse real estate community.

Question 9

What areas of Florida do you serve?

Accepted Answer

Clear Path Title & Escrow is headquartered in Coral Gables (Miami) and serves the entire state of Florida. Whether your property is in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Orlando, Tampa, or anywhere else in the state, our team can handle your closing.

Question 10

How do I get an estimate for my closing costs?

Accepted Answer

Simply fill out our estimate request form with your transaction details. Our team will respond promptly with a clear breakdown. You can also call us at (305) 239-4567 or contact us via our website form.

Question 11

What does an escrow company do?

Accepted Answer

An escrow company acts as a neutral third party that holds and disburses funds during a real estate transaction. At Clear Path, we manage escrow with precision, handling payoff calculations, prorations, and final accounting to make sure every dollar is accounted for at closing.

Question 12

How do I choose the best title company in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Look for a title company with local expertise, strong communication, and experience handling your type of transaction. Clear Path combines boutique-level attention, bilingual service, and nearly two decades of Florida title experience.

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