From the Sherman & Phalen team
Read our latest insights about all things related to closings, ranging from practical notes on closings, title work, and real stories our team experienced in the field.
Residential Closings
We’ve recently heard this question from several Georgia lenders. They called us after reading our post about Georgia’s 2012 Good Funds law. They were primarily curious about closing HELOCs in-house. Our earlier post explained that the Good Funds law, in part, codified the Georgia Supreme Court holding that attorneys are required to close residential loans in most circumstances. We […]
Residential Closings
How Owner’s Title Insurance Kept a Closing on Track When a Prior Lien Was Missed
What happens when a prior lien is missed? In this real closing scenario, owner’s title insurance helped resolve the issue and keep the transaction moving forward.
Residential Closings
Why Adding a Minor Child to Your Deed Could Be a Costly Mistake in Georgia
Adding your child to a deed can feel like smart estate planning, but in Georgia a minor can't legally convey property. Here's how that well-meaning move can stall a future sale — and what to do instead.
Commercial Closings
Real estate closings are a frequent target for wire fraud and fake-seller schemes. Here's how we verify identities and safeguard your funds at every step, including the tools working quietly behind the scenes.
Residential Closings
Recording your deed at closing doesn't file your homestead exemption — that's a separate step, and the deadline is April 1. If you bought or moved into a Georgia home last year, here's what to check before you miss it.
FinCEN has implemented a new nationwide reporting rule for certain residential real estate transactions to combat money laundering. While most closings are unaffected, purchases involving entities or trusts and non-traditional financing may require additional reporting before closing.
Even a clean title search can’t catch everything. Learn how owner’s title insurance protects Georgia homebuyers from forged deeds, undisclosed heirs, and hidden title defects — and why Sherman & Phalen recommends it at every closing.
Learn what Georgia’s Good Funds Law means for your real estate closing—and why timing, cleared funds, and wire security are crucial for a smooth transaction.
Got a surprise tax bill after closing on your home? Here’s why — and how tax proration really works in Georgia.
Investor Transactions
Buying Property at Auction? 5 Key Questions to Ask Before You Bid
Before bidding on a property at auction, ask these 5 key questions to protect your investment and avoid costly surprises.
Residential Closings
Buying your first home? We make the closing process simple, clear, and stress-free—so you can focus on getting the keys.
Going the FSBO route? We’ll help you draft the contract and guide you through a smooth, neutral closing process.
