In a real estate transaction, a title company acts as a neutral third party to ensure the property legally changes hands. We conduct a deep search of public records to ensure the property is free of liens or ownership disputes, issue title insurance to protect the buyer and lender, prepare all settlement documents, and securely hold and disburse the funds (escrow) so everyone gets paid safely.

While a standard title agency can process paperwork, they cannot provide legal advice or draft legal documents. If a complex title defect, unrecorded lien, or probate issue arises, a standard agency’s process grinds to a halt. Because Cigar City Title is attorney-owned and operated, our on-staff legal experts can proactively identify and cure these defects in-house, keeping your closing on track and providing an unmatched level of security.

Wire fraud is one of the biggest threats in real estate today. At Cigar City Title, we protect your funds by utilizing Qualia Connect, an industry-leading, bank-level secure digital portal. We will NEVER email you changes to our wire instructions. You will access wire instructions safely through our encrypted portal. Always call our office at a verified phone number to verbally confirm instructions before sending any money.

Customs vary by county in Florida. In the Tampa Bay area (including Hillsborough and Pinellas counties), it is customary for the Seller to pay for the Owner’s Title Insurance policy and choose the title company. The Buyer typically pays for the Lender’s Title Insurance policy if they are getting a mortgage. However, these terms are always negotiable in your real estate contract.

Whether you are buying or selling, you will need to bring a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID (such as a Driver’s License or Passport). Some lenders may require a second form of ID. Buyers will also need to arrange for their funds (either via a confirmed wire transfer or a certified cashier's check) prior to the closing appointment.

For a standard residential transaction involving a mortgage, the process typically takes 30 to 45 days from the time the contract is signed to the closing day. For cash buyers, the process is much faster and can often be closed in as little as 7 to 14 days, depending on how quickly the title search and municipal lien searches are returned.

Not a problem! We handle Out-of-State and Mail-Away closings regularly. Through secure mail-away packages and coordination with remote notaries, you can safely sign your closing documents from anywhere in the country.

A 1031 Like-Kind Exchange is a tax-deferral strategy utilized by real estate investors. It allows an investor to sell an investment property and reinvest the proceeds into a new property, deferring capital gains taxes. Because strict IRS timelines and rules apply, our attorneys work closely with Qualified Intermediaries to ensure these complex transactions are executed flawlessly.