The following is a true story. Spread the word that you are entitled to choose your own title agent, so you don’t end up spending more, like my recent client. Contact an independent title agency for your title insurance needs, and ask them to detail the fees they charge. Be an educated consumer, and don’t spend money you don’t have to.

If you are buying or selling real estate, it is pretty much a given that you will need a realtor. But is that the only professional you need to complete your real estate transaction? When you consider the magnitude and complexity of the transaction that is about to play out before you, it makes sense to have a team of professionals on your side, not just one.

Buying a home is, for many of us, the biggest single investment we’ll ever make. Knowing this, most homeowners provide for the security and safekeeping of their homes by insuring them against hazards such as fire, theft and weather damage.