[Hiring] Production Underwriting Attorney @Ardán, A Community of Companies

Role Description

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 solutions.
• 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.
• Work 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.
• Advise 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.

Qualifications

• 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.
• 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.
• 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, 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).

Requirements

• This role is mostly sedentary and requires the ability to sit for long periods each day.
• Regularly required to communicate orally and through e-mail.
• Uses hands and fingers to type, handle, and reach.
• Ability to operate office machinery such as computer, phone, copier, printer, etc. in the commission of daily duties.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Prepared to travel within Texas and the 4 surrounding states by either car or airline.
• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods to teach courses for real estate agents, escrow officers, or attorneys.

Benefits

• 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.