Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, not much in the way of economic indicators for this coming week.

The Banker Next Door (BND) weekly live stream show. Strategy Room provides financial news, commentary, top stories in the business world, economic indicators, and all things banking for the week. 🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6515721497214976

Land Portal: https://go.retipster.com/landportal/yt-4FpW5Rf5MEA (REtipster Affiliate Link) The Hidden Dangers of Sloped Land (Topography Research for Vacant Lots): https://youtu.be/sloaspfNT7Y?si=fgZpHVLgd20RcIHt Full Blog Post: https://retipster.com/slope-savvy/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=4FpW5Rf5MEA Most land investors completely overlook the slope of their properties until it’s too late. A steep parcel can wreck your budget, kill […]

Full Blog Post: https://retipster.com/homebuyingmistakes/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=S6xdYjlTewA I’ve bought a few houses in my life, and every time, I’ve learned something new the hard way. In this video, I break down the most overlooked (but crucial) things you need to research before you buy a house. From hidden traffic issues and bad neighbors to expensive repairs and sketchy cell reception, I’ll help you avoid the headaches I […]

In this episode of Conversations with My Real Friends®, Jennifer Felten welcomes Robert Triplett, Esq., owner of Family Security Law Group, to talk about “Estate Planning Client Relationships.” An essential part of estate planning is navigating life changes with clients, whether it’s marriage, children, aging, or unexpected events. Robert shares how building strong, trust-based relationships allows attorneys to better guide clients through these transitions with clarity and care. […]

America’s farm system is in trouble. Parts of it are collapsing in real time. Over regulation is crushing small farmers. An Idaho farmer named Steve Jarvis has a plan. It entails wiping out every farmer’s debt! Very radical, but he might be on to something. Any bank or banker that is involved with agricultural lending should listen to this episode. If your state is highly dependent on agriculture, you should listen to this episode. This episode examines an article from The Epoch Times […]

The Big Four underwriters, FNF, First American, Stewart, and Old Republic, just redefined the title landscape. In this episode, Crosby and Zina unpack the Q3 results that prove the market isn’t depressed, it’s evolving. They break down how the “tech titans” are restoring profit margins through automation and digital platforms, while challengers like Stewart double down on agency recruitment and Old Republic stands firm in disciplined underwriting. If you’re planning for 2026, this is […]

This BND: Strategy Room Bonus episode is an update on mortgages and housing. This clip is from the BND: Strategy Room Live Stream from 11-15-2025.

An experienced Iowa real estate agent spent nearly $1,000 marketing a property, only to discover the seller was a fraud. Fake sellers continue doing their best to list properties that don’t belong to them and collect a cash sale before anyone notices. Although seller impersonation fraud isn’t receiving as much attention as it did a

StrideSkip: https://go.retipster.com/strideskip/yt-3dzW37uOaNU In this video, I’ll show you how to bulk skip trace a list of property owners using Stride Skip. This tool is fast, easy, and one of the cheapest options I’ve ever found. Whether you're a land flipper or real estate investor working with large lead lists, this is a game-changer. I’ll walk you through exactly how it works, how to upload your list, and what kind of results you can expect. You don’t need to be a Stride […]

Not all real estate has to come with a hefty price tag. There are still markets where homes are affordable, tenant demand is solid, and turnkey providers make it easier for both new and seasoned investors to step into cash-flowing opportunities. In this episode, we take a closer look at some of these markets and The post Podcast: Affordable Cash-Flowing Properties for New and Seasoned Investors appeared first on The Real Estate Guys Radio Show.

President Trump has stated that he knows Jeremy Powell's replace and that the individual will be named soon. Powell's term ends in May 2026.

In this episode of Conversations with My Real Friends®, Jennifer Felten sits down with Christy Rueckert of Pinnacle Estate Properties, Inc. to talk about the importance of “Title Issues.” Title problems can derail a real estate transaction faster than almost anything else. In this video, Christy and Jennifer discuss some of the most common, and most costly, title issues that buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals encounter, and how to resolve them before they become […]

Mortgage refinance demand is 111% higher than last year, a surge fueled by declining mortgage rates and renewed interest from homeowners looking to improve their financial position. Refinancing can certainly be a smart move—a way to lower monthly payments, consolidate debt, or tap into home equity. But this sense of routine can mask the very real risks involved. Many assume a refinance is simply a streamlined, less complicated process compared to purchasing a home. Yet recent industry data […]

Get Your Business In Stride: https://go.retipster.com/stride/yt-Lm2gim1pvF8 I sat down with Joe Rinek to hear about his experience switching CRMs and why he ultimately chose Stride. After running into major frustrations with Zoho, Joe was blown away by how much simpler Stride made everything. We talk about what finally made him switch, how the training changed his business, and the automations that are saving him hours each week. If you're a land investor looking for a more powerful, […]

Envy is one of the seven deadly sins. Envy is defined as the intense desire to have an item or quality that someone else possesses. Envy is at the very heart of socialism. The recent creep in the U.S. toward socialism politically is very troubling. The U.S. has been here before in the 1930’s during the great depression. History has proven that socialism does not have the answers to economic problems that society seeks. Envy is a powerful vice, as is pride, greed, lust, gluttony, wrath, and […]

*📊 Manage Land Deals Like a Pro with Stride CRM* https://go.retipster.com/stride/yt-M87_UT195rA I sat down with Joe Rinek to hear about his experience switching CRMs and why he ultimately chose Stride. After running into major frustrations with Zoho, Joe was blown away by how much simpler Stride made everything. We talk about what finally made him switch, how the training changed his business, and the automations that are saving him hours each week. If you're a land investor […]

President Trump is seeking to put through an executive order that would prohibit states from passing their own AI regulation.

Westcor’s ID verification tool helps prevent fraudulent transactions-Westcor Senior Vice President of Product Solutions Richard Murray spoke with The Title Report about this product that helps title professionals verify identities of buyers and sellers.

AM Best affirms financial strength, credit ratings for First American companies - AM Best affirmed the financial strength rating of A (excellent) and the long-term issuer credit ratings of “a” (excellent) of First American Title Insurance Co. and its title affiliates.

What does it take to become the trusted, go-to expert in your field? In this episode, host Ann Allard sits down with Brenda Nelson to explore how reliability, knowledge, and confidence build professional credibility over time. Brenda shares her own journey, lessons learned, and practical advice for standing out as the person others turn to for answers. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, this episode is full of insights on how to earn trust—and keep it.

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By Angela Fling  |  Senior Vice President, Central Area Manager As the year winds down, it’s a natural time for reflection. For me, this reflection is filled with a deep sense of gratitude for the journey we’re on at Westcor. It’s a feeling that extends from my immediate team to the broader community we are privileged to serve. Our Foundation: Culture and People I’m so thankful for this company, the culture we’ve built, and the amazing people I get to work with […]

Save the DateFebruary 11, 2026DCLTA is joining the Maryland Land Title Association to hold a joint seminar at The Great Room at Savage Mill in Savage, MD. More details to come.

SANTA ANA, Calif., Nov. 18, 2025 – First American Data & Analytics, a leading national provider of property-centric information, risk management and valuation solutions and a division of First American Financial Corporation (NYSE: FAF), today released its October 2025 Home Price Index (HPI) report. The report tracks home price changes less than four weeks behind real time at the national, state and metropolitan (Core-Based Statistical Area) levels and includes metropolitan price tiers […]

Join us on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, for a live webinar. Patrick Everman, Partner | Bradley, will be our presenter. Mississippi’s…

In this engaging episode, host Ann Allard sits down with Joe Alvis to explore how meaningful networking can open doors, build relationships, and grow your business. Joe shares his approach to making authentic connections, tips for navigating networking events, and how to turn casual conversations into lasting professional opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned networker or just getting started, this episode offers practical insights to help you connect with purpose.

How do global FinSinners from cartels to corrupt foreign actors, use the financial system to wash trillions in dirty money every year? Former CIA spy and Treasury Special Agent John Cassara joins hosts Sarah Frano and Matt Sager to expose how global FinSinners, our name for the criminals who twist and exploit the very rules designed by FinCEN, move billions through banks, shell companies, and even legitimate property transactions. You’ll learn how old-school crime meets modern finance and why […]

Rowland Title Company, Inc., a Cornerstone of Anderson and Madison County Announces Sale to Meridian Title Company

In this episode of the REconomy Podcast™, Chief Economist Mark Fleming and Deputy Chief Economist Odeta Kushi shine a light on the housing market’s scariest headlines, exposing the myths shrouding reality. They explain why slowing price growth, a modest uptick in delinquencies, and low sales volumes point to a market that’s steadily rebalancing, rather than crashing. Don’t miss a single REconomy episode, subscribe today: https://blog.firstam.com/reconomy-podcast

In this episode of closing time, John Williams CEO and Founder of Bluegrass Land Title. As one of the largest agents in the Midwest, John has seen many interesting closings throughout his career. He shares one of the most memorable he handled for a newlywed couple and how he pivoted from his initial dream of a career in hospitality to finally landing in the title insurance industry. Watch part 1 to hear how John went from thinking "title" was something only relating to cars to owning his own […]

In this forward-looking episode, host Ann Allard sits down with Nate Baker, CEO and Founder of Qualia, to discuss the transformative power of AI in the real estate and title industries. Nate shares how Qualia is leveraging AI to streamline workflows and improve the closing experience—and how its strategic partnership with Old Republic Title is driving innovation across the industry. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the evolving technology landscape, what’s coming next, and how agents […]

In the second part of this episode of "Closing Time," Iain Bryan, Group President of Stewart Agency Services, discusses company culture and expansion with Amy Gregory, President of Florida Agency Network. As a fast-growing company, Florida Agency Network has used opportunity and innovation to expand and diversify services for its clients while investing in company culture and its employees. Starting as an office manager at one of Florida Agency Network's, Amy's current role as President […]

In this episode of the REconomy Podcast™, Deputy Chief Economist Odeta Kushi and Senior Commercial Economist Xander Snyder break down whether the commercial real estate market has reached peak distress, explaining why shifts in debt maturities, delinquency rates and sales activity across asset classes may offer a glimmer of optimism. Don’t miss a single REconomy episode, subscribe today: https://blog.firstam.com/reconomy-podcast

By Mike Trowbridge |  Vice President, Regional Agency Manager ALTA ONE in New York City was more than just another industry conference. For Westcor and our incredible network of title agents, it was a milestone moment—a chance to celebrate success, honor a remarkable legacy, and connect with the people who make our work meaningful. Honoring Mary O’Donnell’s Legacy One of the most memorable highlights of ALTA ONE was the tribute to our CEO and President, Mary […]

Paul F. AlphenMy cousin Vinnie, the retiring suburban real estate attorney, was on the Cape for a family wedding, so we made a point of getting together at my place after the festivities.  Vinnie had, perhaps, recently completed his final function as a practicing attorney, as an expert witness in a land use case. I took him for a boat ride around Waquoit Bay, to tear him away from my bourbon collection. “Paulie”, Vinnie bellowed, “I was on the stand for the better part of four […]

  Withholding Forms ScenariosWithholding Form - Maine Withholding Form - Rhode Island Withholding Form - Vermont ·       REBA Letter

In the real estate industry, establishing a distinct and trustworthy brand is essential for title agents who want to stand out. A strong brand identity does more than just make you memorable; it builds credibility with clients and partners, creating a foundation for long-term success. For independent agents, developing a personal brand is a powerful way to communicate your expertise, reliability, and unique value proposition in a crowded marketplace. It's about showcasing what makes your...

Presented by Michael S. McKay, Security Title Guarantee Corporation of Baltimore, Assistant State Manager Reading Between the Boundary Lines: What Your Land Survey Really Means…

SANTA ANA, Calif., Oct. 16, 2025 – First American Data & Analytics, a leading national provider of property-centric information, risk management and valuation solutions and a division of First American Financial Corporation (NYSE: FAF), today released its September 2025 Home Price Index (HPI) report. The report tracks home price changes less than four weeks behind real time at the national, state and metropolitan (Core-Based Statistical Area) levels and includes metropolitan price tiers […]

 Stephen Wiseman What is a preliminary injunction? A preliminary injunction is a tool used by litigants to obtain relief from thecourt prior to the resolution of a case on the merits. They are only appropriate in certain circumstances, where a party may be irreparably harmed if an injunction is not granted while the case is pending. Rule 65 of the Massachusetts Rules of Civil Procedure provides specific requirements governing the issuance of injunctions, including that the party […]

Bridget M. Rose Last April, the Boston launched a new Co-Purchasing Housing Pilot Program (“Program”). The Program, which is one of several initiatives adopted inaccordance with Mayor Wu’s Boston’s 2025 housing strategy, is a new loan program intended to improve homeownership opportunities by encouraging co-purchasing to permit multiple households to leverage their combined purchasing power to acquire multifamily properties. Zero-percent interest deferred loans, payable upon […]

 Katherine Prifti Ownership of real estate by religious organizations raises unique concerns for conveyancing attorneys. When insuring the title to property owned by a religious organization, it is crucial you determine the various approvals required – not to mention, who should be signing the deed or mortgage. This article will discuss several types of religious organizations and outline who the authorized parties are to convey real property.  In Massachusetts, a religious […]

In this eye-opening episode, host Ann Allard chats with Sue Morgan, who shares a not-so-sweet trip to the dentist—and the powerful customer service lessons it revealed. Sue reflects on how that uncomfortable experience translates to the way we treat clients in the title industry. With warmth and wisdom, she breaks down the do's and don'ts of customer care and reminds us why empathy, communication, and consistency matter more than ever.

Join Sarah and Matt in this spine-chilling Halloween special where they dive into the eerie world of real estate fraud where even the deceased aren't safe from scammers. From cyber criminals in hoodies to fraudsters trolling obituaries, this episode uncovers the dark and twisted tales of how properties are stolen using the identities of the dead. To stay ahead of fraud risks and cybercrimes in real estate, sign up for the First American CyberSmart Newsletter: […]

In this episode of the REconomy Podcast™, Chief Economist Mark Fleming and Deputy Chief Economist Odeta Kushi break down why Federal Reserve rate cuts don’t always translate into lower mortgage rates and how today’s complex economic environment may make the housing market less rate sensitive than many believe. Don’t miss a single REconomy episode, subscribe today: https://blog.firstam.com/reconomy-podcast

In this episode of the REconomy Podcast™, Chief Economist Mark Fleming and Deputy Chief Economist Odeta Kushi break down why Federal Reserve rate cuts don’t always translate into lower mortgage rates and how today’s complex economic environment may make the housing market less rate sensitive than many believe. Don’t miss a single REconomy episode, subscribe today: https://blog.firstam.com/reconomy-podcast

If you have not yet registered for the Annual Conference scheduled for Monday, April 20 and Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at The Jung Hotel in New Orleans,…

The cost of title insurance is based on the purchase price of your home as well as the state the property is located, so it will vary. According to one source*, in California the average homeowner’s title insurance policy cost is about $830 for a $200,000 home purchase. Title defects aren’t common, but when they do occur, the result can be serious. It could even result in the loss of the property!

If a defect is not discovered or is undiscoverable through the title search, and later causes a problem with the title, a title insurance policy helps cover the cost of resolving the issue. Of course, this is a simplified explanation of title insurance – defects in title can be very complicated. For example, a prior owner could have had unpaid property taxes, construction bills, or a previous unpaid mortgage! Any of these problems could result in a lien against the property. A lien is a […]

🏠 FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting: What’s Covered? The clock is ticking toward the implementation date of the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Rule! Doreen Strothman, Underwriting & Claims Counsel for Security Title Guarantee Corporation of Baltimore, breaks down what counts as a covered or reportable transfer under the rule. 👉 You’ll learn: Which property types qualify as residential real estate under the new rule What defines a “non-financed transfer” […]

October Research LLC Hosts Two Webinars This Month Q4 Economic Outlook featuring Sam Williamson 2 p.m. ET, Oct. 16th Join us for the next edition of the popular Economic Outlook series featuring First American’s Sam Williamson, where you’ll gain the timely insight needed to close out 2025 with confidence and prepare strategically for 2026. This webinar will break down the latest economic developments, including the recent […]

Dawn D. McDonald Problem: The covenants of our association prohibit pets.  An owner who moved in recently is blind and has a seeing-eye dog that she insists sheshould be allowed to keep. When the board cited her for violating the covenants and began fining her, she sued. Solution: This situation is not unusual, but can be problematic for boards, especially if they do not understand what the law requires. The federal and state fair housing laws require housing providers (including […]

 Dillon Brown  It has been said so often it is trite but nonetheless true:  An oral contract isn’tworth the paper it’s written on.  Also, true but not said nearly often enough:  A written lease isn’t worth much either if it doesn’t contain the language needed to protect the landlord. Residential Leases What should residential landlords not include in their leases?  Specifically, a newly-enacted Massachusetts law prohibits landlords from charging their broker’s […]

Larry A. Wasson, President of North Vernon Abstract Co. Inc., was recently presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indiana Land Title Association (ILTA) at its annual President’s Banquet.

FinCEN Announces Postponement of Residential Real Estate Reporting Until March 1, 2026 WASHINGTON––To reduce business burden and ensure effective regulation, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) today announced that it will postpone reporting requirements of the Anti-Money Laundering Regulations for Residential Real Estate Transfers Rule (RRE Rule) until March 1, 2026. FinCEN is […]

Article by Jerry C. Booth, Jr. I. Introduction A judicial tax sale is a legal process used to collect delinquent real estate taxes by selling the property through a proceeding in the local circuit court. The procedure is governed by Article 4 of Chapter 39, Title 58.1, et. seq, of the Code of Virginia.  The … Continue reading Guide to Judicial Tax Sales For Examiners & Underwriters in Virginia