First American Title

With my home closing delayed by a week, my real estate agent couldn’t meet me on the alternate date since she had some out-​of-​state buyers to squire around town. No big whoop — I completely understand and respect that she’s got to hustle to keep the cash gravy train going.
Plus, it wasn’t my first time at the rodeo on home closings, either. That first time was about 12 years ago when I bought my first condo; the second time was when I was selling it above cost to pay off the «float» on my grad student loans (effectively making my grad school «free»). So, I looked at this third time to the closing table as almost akin to a routine dental appointment. Except I looked forward to this more.
Nestled just inside the Loop off of Post Oak Boulevard, this office is in a swanky warren of buildings. Everything is anti-​ghetto: good furnishings, tasteful décor, fresh assortment of muffins on the table, and even [gasp] pleasant receptionists. My escrow officer, Gary Stokes, was the same one at the first two transactions so there’s consistency for you.
We exchanged pleasantries and got down to signing all of my documents. Done in a record 30 minutes, this was the fastest home transaction — and the best in my mind. No seller (out of state resident), no seller’s agent (she was in court: don’t know if she was plaintiff, defendant, or jury member), or buyer’s agent. Just me, the escrow officer, my cashier’s check, and stacks of papers. And, those muffins.
First American and Gary Stokes did a great job of getting me out in a hurry — and, for that, they get a solid 3 stars.
* If you’ve gone through the buying or selling process, there’s always a title company involved selling both sides title insurance. Pardon me but this is the biggest ripoff ever. They insure buyers (and lenders) in case someone in the future knocks on your door and claims that they are the rightful owners of said property. Let me ask: When was the last time you heard of this happening? I mean, really? **
** If they do knock on my door, I’ll direct them to the large stone in front with the sword in it. If they can pull the sword from the stone, they can have my property — and be crowned King of England.