Comprehensive Guide to Residential Purchases and Sales in Powells Crossroads
Buying or selling a home in Powells Crossroads involves legal steps that affect your rights, finances, and timeline. Whether you are navigating a first-time purchase, coordinating a move across county lines, or transferring property after a life change, clear legal guidance can help you avoid pitfalls. This page outlines what to expect during a residential real estate transaction in Marion County, including contract review, title concerns, disclosure obligations, and closing procedures. Our goal is to provide practical, locally focused information so you feel prepared to move forward with confidence in every stage of the process.
Residential real estate matters often blend legal, financial, and practical concerns that require careful attention to documents and deadlines. From negotiating contingencies to confirming property boundaries and handling escrow, each detail can affect the outcome of your transaction. This overview highlights common issues that arise in Powells Crossroads transactions and describes how a consistent, thorough approach helps protect your interests. We also explain the role the law firm plays at different stages so you understand when to seek guidance and what information to gather before you sign any agreement.
Why Professional Legal Guidance Matters for Home Transactions
A residential purchase or sale involves contracts, title matters, disclosures, and coordination with lenders and closing agents. Legal review of contracts can identify unfavorable terms, missing contingencies, or unclear timelines that might leave you exposed to financial or legal risk. In addition, careful examination of title records can reveal outstanding liens, easements, or ownership disputes that could delay or jeopardize closing. Working with an attorney helps ensure paperwork is accurate, deadlines are met, and negotiations reflect your priorities, ultimately reducing stress and improving the chances of a smooth transfer of ownership.
About Jay Johnson Law Firm and Our Local Real Estate Services
Jay Johnson Law Firm serves clients throughout Powells Crossroads and the surrounding areas of Marion County with a focus on residential real estate matters. The firm assists buyers and sellers with contract review, title issues, closings, and dispute resolution related to residential transactions. Our approach emphasizes timely communication, practical legal analysis, and local knowledge of Tennessee real estate practices and procedures. We work closely with lenders, real estate agents, and title companies to keep your transaction moving and to address any issues that arise before closing.
Understanding Residential Purchase and Sale Legal Services
Legal services for residential purchases and sales cover a range of tasks: reviewing and negotiating purchase agreements, conducting title examinations, preparing closing documents, and addressing inspections and disclosure requirements. Attorneys help interpret contract language, draft necessary amendments, and ensure that contingencies are properly stated to protect your position. These services also include coordinating with escrow agents and lenders so closing proceeds and documents are handled correctly. The work begins early in the transaction and continues through post-closing follow up when needed.
Many transactions benefit from counsel at multiple points: before you submit an offer, when a seller provides disclosures, after receiving inspection results, and during final settlement. An attorney can recommend appropriate contract provisions, advise on potential title encumbrances, and explain the legal implications of repairs or credits negotiated after inspection. For sellers, legal review helps ensure that disclosures and contract terms reduce exposure to future claims. Both buyers and sellers can use legal guidance to manage risk and streamline the path to closing.
What Residential Purchase and Sale Legal Services Entail
Residential purchase and sale legal services focus on the legal steps that complete the transfer of real property between buyer and seller. This includes drafting and reviewing purchase agreements, preparing or reviewing seller disclosures, conducting a title search, resolving recorded defects, handling escrow instructions, and preparing closing statements and deeds. Attorneys also advise on contingencies tied to financing, inspections, appraisals, and closing dates. The objective is to ensure that the transaction documents are accurate, that title transfers free of undisclosed encumbrances, and that any negotiated terms are enforceable under Tennessee law.
Key Elements and Typical Processes in a Residential Transaction
A typical residential transaction moves through stages that include offer and acceptance, inspections, title review, financing approval, and the closing process. At each stage there are specific documents and deadlines to manage: the purchase agreement outlines the obligations and contingencies; inspections can trigger repair negotiations or credits; the title search reveals potential hurdles; and the closing requires coordination of funds and signatures. Attorneys help interpret and prepare these documents, negotiate contract language when needed, and ensure all requirements for transfer of ownership are satisfied prior to recording.
Key Terms and Glossary for Residential Real Estate Transactions
Understanding common terms used during a home purchase or sale helps you follow the process and communicate clearly with agents, lenders, and closing personnel. This glossary highlights frequently encountered concepts such as title, escrow, closing costs, contingencies, deed, and homestead exemptions under Tennessee law. Familiarity with these terms makes it easier to review documents and ask informed questions during negotiations and closing. If a term remains unclear, seeking clarification early can prevent misunderstandings that might impact your rights or obligations.
Title
Title refers to the legal right to possess and use a property and the documented record of ownership. A title search examines public records to identify prior owners, liens, mortgages, easements, or other claims that could affect the ability to transfer clear ownership to a buyer. Resolving any clouds on title may require paying off liens, obtaining releases, or clarifying recorded documents before closing. Title insurance is commonly used to protect buyers and lenders from covered title defects that were not discovered during the title search.
Contingency
A contingency is a condition written into a purchase agreement that must be satisfied before the transaction can proceed to closing. Common contingencies include satisfactory home inspection results, lender approval for financing, and a clear title. If a contingency is not met within the agreed timeline, the contingency language typically permits the buyer to seek remedies, negotiate a solution, or terminate the contract without penalty. Properly drafted contingencies define deadlines and acceptable outcomes to protect the parties’ interests during the transaction.
Escrow
Escrow refers to a neutral third-party account where funds and documents are held until all conditions of the transaction are met. The escrow agent follows written instructions from the parties and coordinates disbursement of closing proceeds, payment of liens, and recording of deed transfers. Escrow helps ensure that funds are only released when required documents are in order and title conditions are satisfied. The escrow process varies by transaction but is an important safeguard that brings together the financial and legal elements needed to complete the sale.
Deed
A deed is the legal document that transfers ownership of real property from the seller to the buyer and is recorded in the county where the property is located. The deed identifies the parties, describes the property, and includes language specifying the nature of the transfer. Recording the deed provides public notice of the change in ownership and protects the buyer’s interest in the property. Different types of deeds carry different warranties about title, so understanding the deed’s language is important for both buyers and sellers.
Comparing Limited and Comprehensive Legal Approaches
When handling a residential transaction, parties may choose a limited legal review focused on a single document or a comprehensive approach that covers the entire transaction lifecycle. A limited review might involve a one-time contract review or closing document check, while a comprehensive approach includes ongoing support from negotiation to post-closing questions. The right choice depends on risk tolerance, transaction complexity, and whether title issues or unusual contract terms are present. Understanding the trade-offs helps you choose a service level that aligns with your needs.
When a Focused Review May Be Appropriate:
Simple Transactions With Clear Title
A limited review can be appropriate when the property has a clear title history, the contract is standard and straightforward, and there are no unusual contingencies or significant repair issues. For buyers using conventional financing on a common form purchase agreement, a targeted review of the contract and closing documents may identify the most important concerns quickly and cost-effectively. Sellers with routine transactions may also benefit from a focused check to confirm that disclosures and deed language are in order before listing or closing.
Low-Risk Transactions and Informed Parties
A limited approach may suit clients who are familiar with the process, have previously completed similar transactions, and are confident that the sale or purchase will follow a familiar path. In such cases, targeted legal review can address specific questions or concerns without adding unnecessary time or cost. It remains important to ensure the reviewer has access to all relevant documents and that the parties communicate openly about inspection results, financing timelines, and any negotiated changes to the agreement.
Why a Comprehensive Service Often Delivers Better Protection:
Complex Transactions and Title Issues
Comprehensive legal services are especially helpful where title defects, liens, boundary disputes, or complex financing arrangements exist. When a property has a history of multiple transfers, or when undisclosed easements and encroachments may affect use, ongoing legal attention can help identify and resolve issues before closing. A full-service approach includes a thorough title examination, negotiation with creditors or lienholders if needed, and coordination with surveyors and local officials to confirm boundaries and permitted uses of the property.
Transactions Requiring Negotiation and Custom Agreements
When parties negotiate unique terms—such as seller financing, contingent occupancy periods, complex personal property allocations, or significant repair credits—a comprehensive legal approach helps draft enforceable language and manage timelines. Attorneys can prepare custom addenda, negotiate favorable contingency terms, and ensure closing documents align with negotiated outcomes. This level of involvement reduces the risk of misunderstandings and post-closing disputes, and helps preserve the value and intended outcomes of the transaction for both buyers and sellers.
Benefits of a Thorough, Comprehensive Legal Approach
A comprehensive approach to residential purchases and sales reduces the likelihood of last-minute surprises by addressing title concerns, contract ambiguities, and inspection-related negotiations well before closing. This approach provides continuity throughout the transaction, ensuring consistent application of agreed terms across documents and interactions with lenders and title companies. It also improves the ability to respond quickly if an issue arises, because the attorney is already familiar with the details and history of the matter, which can save time and reduce stress.
Comprehensive services can create clarity around responsibilities for repairs, prorations, and closing costs so parties are less likely to encounter disputes at settlement. A thorough review also helps protect the buyer’s investment by identifying and addressing title encumbrances, while helping sellers limit future liability through accurate disclosures and properly prepared deeds. Overall, this approach supports a smoother closing experience and better protection of your legal and financial interests throughout the transaction.
Reduced Risk of Title and Closing Delays
One clear advantage of comprehensive legal involvement is minimizing the risk of title defects or administrative errors that can delay closing. Early review of title reports and public records allows for timely resolution of liens, judgments, or recording issues that might otherwise prevent a clean transfer of ownership. When corrective actions are identified early, they can often be handled before settlement, reducing the chance of postponement or cancellation and helping to keep negotiated timelines intact for all parties involved.
Clear Documentation and Enforceable Agreements
Comprehensive representation ensures that contractual language accurately reflects negotiated terms and that closing documents are consistent with those agreements. Clear, well-drafted documents reduce the likelihood of post-closing disputes over repairs, prorations, or title matters. This clarity benefits buyers who want assurance their purchase includes agreed protections, and sellers who need confirmation that disclosures and deed language limit future liability. Proper documentation also simplifies lender review and expedites the funding process at settlement.
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Practical Tips for Smooth Residential Purchases and Sales
Start Contract Review Early
Begin legal review of purchase agreements as soon as an accepted offer is in place to identify potential issues and allow time for negotiation. Early review helps spot problematic clauses, ambiguous timelines, and missing contingencies that could affect closing. It also creates an opportunity to align contract terms with lender requirements and inspection outcomes before deadlines approach. Timely legal input reduces the chance of rushed decisions and helps the parties address necessary changes without delaying the transaction.
Confirm Title and Encumbrances Promptly
Keep Clear Records and Stay Communicative
Maintain organized records of inspection reports, repair invoices, disclosures, and lender communications to streamline closing preparations and post-closing follow up. Promptly share documents and updates with your attorney, agent, and escrow officer to ensure everyone is aligned on timelines and obligations. Clear, timely communication helps resolve misunderstandings and keeps the transaction moving, which is particularly important when multiple parties and deadlines are involved.
Why Clients Choose Legal Support for Residential Transactions
Clients often seek legal support to ensure contract terms accurately reflect negotiations, to confirm the absence of title defects, and to protect against unexpected liabilities after closing. Legal review adds a layer of protection by clarifying obligations for repairs, closing costs, and timelines. It also provides guidance through lender requirements and local recording practices that vary by county. When parties want a smoother and more predictable closing, legal involvement helps align expectations and resolve issues efficiently before settlement.
Another common reason to engage legal help is when transactions involve out-of-state buyers or sellers, estate transfers, or properties with complicated ownership histories. These situations can raise additional questions about disclosures, probate matters, or prior liens. Legal support helps navigate those complexities, coordinate with other professionals, and prepare the necessary documents to complete the transfer. This assistance can be especially valuable for clients who do not live nearby or who are handling matters remotely.
Common Situations That Often Require Legal Assistance
Legal involvement is frequently beneficial when title searches reveal liens, when inspection reports identify major repairs, when financing is conditional or nonstandard, or when sales include unique personal property or occupancy arrangements. It is also important when a transaction is part of an estate settlement, divorce, or business dissolution, as additional legal steps may be needed to authoritatively transfer ownership. Recognizing these situations early can prompt timely legal action and reduce delay or dispute at closing.
Title Encumbrances or Liens
When a title search shows outstanding liens, mortgages, or judgments, legal assistance helps clarify who is responsible for payoff and how to obtain releases so the title can transfer cleanly. Addressing these encumbrances may involve negotiation with creditors, coordinating payoffs at closing, or obtaining documentation to satisfy recording requirements. Legal involvement ensures that document language accurately reflects agreed payoffs and that escrow instructions allocate funds correctly to resolve recorded obligations before transfer.
Inspection-Related Disputes
If inspections reveal significant structural issues, safety problems, or unexpected repair needs, legal guidance can help structure repair agreements, negotiate credits, or adjust closing terms to reflect the parties’ intentions. Attorneys help draft clear addenda that define repair timelines, contractor obligations, and payment arrangements so both buyer and seller understand responsibilities. This reduces the chance of disputes and provides a framework for enforcement if agreed repairs are not completed as specified.
Unusual Contract Terms or Seller Financing
Transactions that include seller financing, leases with purchase options, or custom occupancy arrangements require carefully drafted terms to protect both parties. Legal assistance helps draft loan documents, deeds of trust, and payment schedules that reflect the parties’ objectives while complying with applicable law. Clear documentation of repayment terms, default remedies, and transfer conditions prevents misunderstandings and preserves the enforceability of the agreement over time.
Local Legal Services for Powells Crossroads Residential Transactions
Jay Johnson Law Firm provides legal services geared to the needs of buyers and sellers in Powells Crossroads and surrounding parts of Marion County. We focus on clear communication, timely document review, and coordination with title companies and lenders to facilitate a smooth closing. Our approach is practical and client-centered: we explain options in plain language, identify potential pitfalls specific to local practices, and work to keep the transaction on schedule. If challenges arise, we help you evaluate solutions and next steps.
Why Clients Turn to Jay Johnson Law Firm for Residential Matters
Clients choose our firm for attentive, locally informed legal assistance during residential purchases and sales. We prioritize clear communication and rapid response to questions about contracts, title reports, and closing procedures. Our role is to protect client interests while working smoothly with agents, lenders, and title professionals to keep the transaction moving. This focus on coordination helps streamline the often-complex sequence of tasks that lead to a successful closing.
We emphasize practical solutions that reflect the realities of the Powells Crossroads market and Tennessee recording requirements. Whether addressing a title issue, negotiating a repair credit, or preparing closing documents, we concentrate on resolving matters efficiently so settlements occur as planned. Our familiarity with local processes and relationships with regional service providers aids in anticipating and preventing avoidable delays that commonly arise during residential closings.
Clients also value a consistent point of contact throughout the transaction who can explain obligations and next steps in straightforward terms. We coordinate deadlines, review key documents, and confirm that all parties understand the terms at each stage of the sale or purchase. This reliability helps clients feel confident in proceeding, particularly when timelines are tight or when transactions include unique contractual provisions.
Ready to Discuss Your Residential Purchase or Sale in Powells Crossroads?
How We Handle Residential Purchases and Sales
Our process begins with an initial review of the purchase agreement and related documents to identify immediate concerns and establish a timeline for inspections, financing, and closing. We then coordinate with title companies to review the title report and consult with you on any needed remedies. Throughout the transaction, we prepare or review closing documents, handle escrow instructions, and work with lenders and agents to confirm funding and recording requirements. This continuous oversight reduces the chance of last-minute surprises.
Step One: Contract Review and Initial Due Diligence
At the outset we review the purchase agreement and any addenda to confirm terms, contingencies, and deadlines. This review includes identifying contingencies related to inspections, financing, and appraisal, and making sure deadlines are clearly stated. We advise on any recommended changes and coordinate with the parties to implement agreed amendments. Early diligence also includes obtaining a preliminary title report and identifying potential encumbrances or recording irregularities that may require attention.
Offer Analysis and Negotiation Support
We analyze offer terms to ensure they reflect the client’s priorities and to identify provisions that may warrant negotiation, such as closing timelines, repair obligations, and contingency language. When negotiation is appropriate, we assist in drafting clear amendments or addenda that capture agreed changes. This support is intended to reduce ambiguity and provide a documented record of any negotiated modifications so the parties have a clear framework leading into inspections and escrow.
Pre-Closing Title and Recorder Checks
During initial review, we request and examine preliminary title reports and public records to identify liens, easements, and recorded documents that could affect transferability. When issues are identified, we outline options for resolving them, such as obtaining releases, negotiating payoffs, or preparing corrective instruments for recording. Addressing these matters early helps maintain the schedule and avoid last-minute delays in clearing title for the buyer at closing.
Step Two: Inspections, Financing, and Continued Coordination
This phase centers on the inspection period and lender requirements. We review inspection reports and negotiate repair agreements or credits as needed, ensuring any changes are incorporated into the contract with clear timelines and responsibilities. We also coordinate with lenders to confirm documentation and appraisal steps are on track. Our role includes ensuring that contingencies are satisfied or properly waived and that financing conditions are met prior to scheduling the closing.
Addressing Inspection Findings and Repair Agreements
When inspections reveal concerns, we help negotiate appropriate remedies such as repairs, contractor schedules, or monetary credits. We draft addenda that specify the scope of work, payment responsibility, and completion timelines. Clear documentation reduces the chance of disagreements and provides enforceable terms should follow-up enforcement become necessary. The goal is to achieve a practical resolution that allows the transaction to proceed while protecting the parties’ interests.
Coordinating With Lenders and Appraisers
We monitor lender requirements and appraisal results to ensure the transaction remains aligned with the financing schedule. If appraisal issues arise that affect loan approval or value, we advise on options including renegotiation, providing additional documentation to the lender, or adjusting contract terms. Coordinating these elements helps prevent financing contingencies from derailing the closing and helps the parties prepare for any adjustments needed before settlement.
Step Three: Closing Preparation and Post-Closing Follow Up
As closing approaches we review the final settlement statement, confirm payoff figures, ensure that all agreed repairs are complete and document transfers are prepared, and verify the form of deed to be recorded. We coordinate the exchange of closing funds and confirm that recording and disbursement instructions are in place. After closing, we confirm recording has occurred and provide copies of recorded documents, and follow up on any remaining administrative matters to complete the transaction.
Final Settlement Review and Funding Coordination
Prior to settlement, we review the final closing statement to verify prorations, payoff amounts, and any credits reflect the agreed terms. We coordinate with escrow and lenders to ensure sufficient funds are available for disbursement and that the deed and other documents are ready for recording. Confirming these details reduces the chance of day-of-closing complications and helps ensure the transfer of ownership occurs smoothly and on schedule.
Recording and Post-Closing Confirmation
After funds are disbursed and documents are signed, we confirm that the deed and any necessary documents are recorded with the county register. We then provide clients with copies of recorded documents and a summary of the completed transaction. If follow-up actions are required, such as final lien releases or tax proration adjustments, we identify and address those items to bring the matter to a complete and documented close for both buyers and sellers.
Common Questions About Residential Purchases and Sales in Powells Crossroads
What should I do first after my offer is accepted?
After your offer is accepted, begin by reviewing the signed purchase agreement carefully to confirm dates and contingencies, such as inspection periods, financing deadlines, and appraisal requirements. Immediately arrange for any inspections and provide the sellers with requested scheduling details. Request a preliminary title report and consult with your attorney about any initial concerns so they can begin reviewing documents and coordinating with escrow and the lender.Maintaining clear communication with your agent, lender, and attorney during this phase helps keep the transaction on track. Respond promptly to requests for documentation and ensure inspection reports are shared with your attorney so potential repair negotiations can be addressed in a timely and documented manner before contingencies expire.
How long does a typical residential closing take in Marion County?
The timeline to closing varies depending on financing, title condition, and any negotiated contingencies. For a conventional purchase without complications, the process from accepted offer to closing often takes between thirty and sixty days to allow for inspections, lender underwriting, appraisal, and title review. However, timelines can be shorter or longer depending on the parties’ agreed dates and the speed of lender approval.When title issues, repairs, or complex financing are involved, additional time may be needed to obtain releases, complete repairs, or revise documents. Keeping all parties informed and addressing issues promptly helps reduce delays and supports reaching settlement within the expected timeframe.
What are the most common title issues to watch for?
Common title issues include outstanding liens or mortgages that were not paid off, recorded judgments, unrecorded easements that affect use of the property, and discrepancies in chain of title from prior transfers. These issues can prevent a clean transfer of ownership until they are resolved by payoff, release, or corrective documentation. Early title review helps identify these matters so they can be addressed before closing.Resolving title matters may require obtaining lien releases, negotiating payoffs at closing, or preparing corrective deeds or affidavits. Title insurance often provides protection against certain defects, but resolving recorded defects before settlement is typically the most straightforward path to a successful closing and helps avoid later disputes over ownership.
Do sellers in Tennessee have disclosure obligations?
In Tennessee, sellers have disclosure obligations that require them to provide accurate information about known conditions affecting the property. Sellers must complete required disclosure forms that detail issues such as prior damage, roof condition, plumbing or electrical problems, and any known environmental concerns. Honest and complete disclosures help buyers make informed decisions and reduce the risk of post-closing claims.If disclosures reveal material issues, buyers may negotiate repairs, credits, or other remedies, and those agreements should be documented in writing. Buyers should review disclosures carefully and consult with their attorney or agent about any items that require further investigation or clarification prior to waiving contingencies.
How are closing costs and prorations handled between buyer and seller?
Closing costs and prorations are typically detailed on the final settlement statement and include items such as lender fees, title and escrow charges, recording fees, and prepaid property taxes or insurance. Sellers often pay commissions and certain closing-related fees, while buyers pay loan-related charges. Property taxes, HOA fees, and utilities are prorated so each party pays their fair share for the period they owned the property.The settlement statement is reviewed before closing to confirm these amounts. If discrepancies arise, they can often be resolved through closing adjustments. Working with an attorney and the escrow officer ensures prorations and payoffs are calculated correctly and that funds are disbursed in accordance with the agreement.
What happens if an inspection uncovers major problems?
If an inspection uncovers major problems, buyers and sellers can negotiate remedies such as repair work, a price reduction, a credit at closing, or a mutual termination of the contract if the contingency allows. It is important to document any agreed solutions in a written addendum that specifies the scope of repairs, who will pay, and completion timelines. Clear documentation reduces the chance of misunderstandings and sets expectations for post-inspection work.When repairs are required, confirm that the solutions meet lender requirements and obtain appropriate warranties or receipts from contractors. If the parties cannot agree, the buyer may choose to exercise their contingency rights as provided in the contract, which could include withdrawing from the purchase and receiving a refund of any earnest money according to the agreement terms.
Can a transaction proceed without a survey?
A survey provides detailed information about property boundaries and can identify encroachments or easements that affect ownership or development plans. Some lenders require a recent survey, and buyers often obtain one when boundary issues are a concern. While a transaction can proceed without a new survey when title insurance and public records provide sufficient assurance, obtaining a survey can reduce future boundary disputes and provide greater clarity about the physical limits of the property.When no survey exists or the property lines are unclear, discussing options with your attorney and title company helps determine whether a survey is advisable. If boundaries are likely to be contested or if future improvements are planned near property lines, ordering a survey early in the process is a prudent step.
What is the role of the escrow or title company at closing?
The escrow or title company acts as a neutral third party that manages funds and documents until all conditions of the transaction are satisfied. They handle the receipt of earnest money, prepare settlement statements, coordinate payoffs for existing liens, collect funds from lenders, and ensure that the deed and related documents are properly recorded. The escrow agent follows written instructions to disburse funds only after required conditions are met.Title companies often also issue title insurance policies to protect against certain unseen defects. Working closely with the escrow or title company helps clarify the timing of disbursements and recording, ensures all necessary documents are in order, and confirms the logistics of the settlement process for both buyer and seller.
How do I handle an out-of-state closing?
Out-of-state closings can be managed efficiently by coordinating remote document signing, using power of attorney where appropriate, and relying on electronic communications for document review. Many title companies and attorneys facilitate remote closings by sending documents for notarized signature at a local notary or by using electronic notarization when available. Early planning is essential to ensure all parties understand the signing and notarization requirements.Working with an attorney who can coordinate with remote signers and confirm recording requirements helps avoid delays. The attorney or title company will confirm how funds will be transferred, how closing documents should be executed, and how recorded documents will be returned or delivered after the county recording office processes them.
When should I involve an attorney in the buying or selling process?
You should involve an attorney early if the transaction involves title issues, complex contract terms, seller financing, estate matters, or out-of-state buyers or sellers. Additionally, if inspection results raise significant repair questions or if there is any uncertainty about deed language or disclosure adequacy, early legal involvement helps resolve matters before contractual deadlines expire. Seeking guidance at the contract stage allows for clearer negotiation and better protection of your interests.Even in straightforward transactions, consulting an attorney to perform a final review of closing documents and confirm payoffs can provide valuable peace of mind. Having legal representation available throughout the process ensures that you have a trusted advisor to interpret documents, respond to unexpected matters, and confirm that recording and disbursement procedures are handled correctly at settlement.