General

What is timeshare?

A timeshare is a property that is subject to a plan that allows purchasers to acquire an ownership interval within a specific property.

What is a rescission period?

This is time allowed by law during which a buyer has the right to cancel a purchase agreement without penalty. Refer to your purchase agreement for details regarding the length of the rescission period and any notice requirements. 

What forms of payments do you accept?

White Rock accepts checks (personal and cashier) and all major credit cards (VISA/MC/AMEX/DISCOVER).

Title Services

What is a chain of title?

A chain of title is the official ownership record of a property. A chain of title traces historical title transfers from the current owner back to the original owner.

What is a title search and exam?

A title company representative searches the public land records to gather information about the property, and then examines findings to determine whether title is clear of defects. 

What is a marketable title?

A marketable title is one that can be transferred to a new owner without the likelihood that claims will be made on it by another party. Buyers expect to receive property to which no one else can lay claim. For this reason, the title search and exam process are essential parts of the closing process, and the reason why one should consider purchasing title insurance.

What is title insurance?

Title insurance is a one-time purchase that protects you against title defects for as long as you own the property. Coverage is limited to the purchase price for the subject property.

Why is title insurance a good idea?

Some risks, such as document errors or undisclosed heirs, are difficult to locate and identify in a title search. Therefore, it is a good idea also to purchase a title insurance policy that will help protect you from risks that might be discovered down the road. A title policy is a one-time purchase and is commonly called an owner’s policy that protects your purchase as long as you own the property.

Why are deeds and mortgages recorded?
Documents are filed in the public land records when a property is deeded or otherwise conveyed to a buyer. These documents are filed in the county where the property is located. Any other events that may affect the ownership such as mortgages, liens, or judgments are also filed in the land records. The act of recording is required by certain regulations governing property to provide a public record about the ownership and status of title.
What is a loan policy of title insurance or a mortgage title policy?
If you take out a mortgage loan when you buy your property, your lender will most likely require a loan policy of title insurance. This protects the lender’s interest in your property until your loan is paid off.
What fees can I expect?

The County Recorder will charge a fee to record a deed, which averages $20. Some counties also charge a transfer tax; amounts can vary significantly among counties. The POA or resort may charge a transfer fee. Some resorts may charge a fee to provide an estoppel disclosing amounts owed for dues, special assessments, or transfer.

What are transfer taxes?

When the title is transferred or deeded to a new party, it may be subject to a transfer tax that is charged by the county to transfer title in the land records.

Can we transfer title if there is an outstanding loan on the property?

Generally, no. Most mortgages are not assumable; and, therefore, must be paid in full. You may direct proceeds from a sale to pay off a loan. However, if the sale proceeds are insufficient to pay off the loan, you will be required to pay the balance before the transfer can be completed.

Will I be notified when my deed is recorded?
Yes, the Seller will receive a copy of the recorded deed, and the Buyer will receive the original. Please note that some counties may take up to 6 months to return the recorded deed.
What is required when a timeshare owner is deceased?

Transfer following the death of an owner is governed by the probate laws in the state where the property is located. There are many variables that will determine what is required. Such variables include ownership vesting, state of residence, property location, and heirs.

Please contact us at 479.242.0974 to discuss in more detail.

Why is a death certificate needed?
A death certificate is required to prove the status of ownership and is essential to convey title to another party. Depending on how title is vested in the property, additional documents may be required to transfer title to another party. We recommend that you provide only a short form death certificate. You may also request that the original be returned. In most cases, that is possible.
What does vesting mean?

Vesting is how title is taken to the property. For instance, “joint tenants with right of survivorship” is generally used when two or more people own property and each owns an equal share.  White Rock cannot advise you on how to take the title.

Can my property be deeded to a trust?
Yes. Documents identifying the legal name of the trust; the date of the trust; the trustee’s; and rights of the trustee to buy, sell, transfer or own real estate are examples of information that is required.
Why do you need my divorce decree?

Reviewing relevant sections of your divorce decree is necessary to fulfill our commitment to deliver accurate, quality services. Even though the property was granted as part of a divorce decree, a deed is required to transfer title or remove a spouse.

How long is the process to transfer title?
Transfers usually take between 45-90 days, depending on how quickly the parties provide information and return duly signed documents.
Who should notify the HOA that the property has been transferred?

Typically, the Buyer should notify the HOA and management company that the property has been sold or transferred by giving them a copy of the recorded deed, but it is a good idea for the Seller to also notify these entities. Failure to timely notify the HOA and management company may result in issues around payment of dues or use of the property.

Escrow

What is escrow?
Escrow is an arrangement made between parties to a transaction, whereby a third party receives and disburses funds or documents related to the transaction or closing.
Do you perform escrow services?
Yes. White Rock performs escrow services and is a licensed, bonded and insured title insurance agency.
When is money disbursed from escrow?
Funds will be disbursed to the appropriate parties after all closing documents have been properly signed and received by the title or escrow agent from all parties.
Will I be notified when my deed is recorded?

Yes, the Seller will receive a copy of the recorded deed, and the Buyer will receive the original. Please note that some counties may take up to 6 months to return the recorded deed.