For Lenders
As a Bitterroot Valley lending professional, you’re well aware of the unique beauty and complexity of Ravalli County property. If you are an out-of-area lender, welcome! We’ll get you through the quirks of Montana Real Estate transactions quickly and accurately. At First Montana Title, we’re committed to making your client’s borrowing experience as smooth, accurate, and secure as possible.
Below are some frequently asked questions and suggestions of how you can help us create a pleasant closing experience:
About Us
First Montana Title Co. was established in 1903 as the Bitterroot Valley’s original title abstract company and continues today as Western Montana’s most trusted real estate settlement and title insurance agency. Having been operated by the current owners as a Montana-raised, family-owned business for more than 40 years, we understand the culture, values, and intricacies of land and title in the Bitterroot and value each of our customers as a friend and neighbor.
As the only fully functional title research plant for consumers, lenders, attorneys, government agencies, developers, and real estate professionals in Ravalli County, we provide world-class settlement services and insurance policy options from top-tier national underwriters for transactions of all sizes and complexities. Other title companies complete their research using online portals and processes that can sometimes be inaccurate or incomplete in rural areas like Ravalli County.
Our plant is used by county and state governments, local attorneys, lenders, and real estate agents to ensure historical accuracy, research unique issues, and gain access to our highly experienced staff (who average more than 25 years in the title research business!).
Our Underwriters Old Republic National Title Insurance Company
Old Republic National Title Insurance Company has been serving the real estate and mortgage industry for more than a century. Founded in 1907, Old Republic Title is one of the largest title insurance groups in the United States. They operate through a national network of Company-owned offices, affiliates, authorized agents, and approved attorneys, which allows them to service customers in both large and small markets across the country.
Commonwealth Land Title Insurance Company
Commonwealth Land Title Insurance Company issued the first modern title insurance policy in 1876, and with it, an industry was born. The Commonwealth has been a leader in making title insurance a key to realizing the dream of property ownership for individuals and businesses alike. Commonwealth is now a proud member of the Fidelity National Financial, Inc. (NYSE: FNF) family of title companies, which collectively represent the largest title insurance and escrow services company in the world.
E&O Liability Coverage
Settlement service and accuracy is an important aspect of a secure real estate transaction. While we pride ourselves on being as accurate and timely as possible, Errors and Omissions liability insurance coverage is essential in creating peace of mind for our clients.
First Montana Title Co. has had less than a fraction of one percent of E&O claims submitted over more than 30 years of current ownership. However, we are fully backed by E&O policy coverage of up to $1 million per transaction.
Our Mission
First Montana Title is committed to providing best-in-class settlement services and competitive insurance products while protecting the integrity, privacy, and security of consumer information and related real estate transactions. This is achieved through adherence to established ALTA procedures and best practices and through a deeply held commitment to accuracy, integrity, and customer experience.