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Embracing New Standards: Fannie Mae’s Endorsement of the Attorney Opinion Letter

In a recent landmark move, Fannie Mae’s expansion of the use of an Attorney Opinion Letter (AOL) for additional types of properties marks a significant shift in real estate practices. For those navigating the realms of For Sale By Owner, or engaging with Real Estate Agents, Brokers, or Realtors, understanding the nuances between an AOL and traditional Title Insurance Policies is now more impactful than ever.

Fannie Mae’s Endorsement and Its Implications

In the past, attorney opinion letters were not permitted in deals involving loans secured by certain kinds of properties. This restriction applied to units in condominium projects, cooperative share loans, leasehold estates, and manufactured homes, among others. However, Fannie Mae updated their stance in December so that AOLs may be used to secure loans for units in condo projects and for other properties subject to restrictive covenants and agreements. Since AOLs can offer a more cost-effective option for property verification compared to traditional title insurance policies, this is great for making home and property ownership more attainable for the average American. It also means more freedom of choice in real estate decision-making, which is a paramount core value at Ohio Broker Direct. However, it’s important to note the limitations of an AOL, particularly in terms of recourse for homeowners against liens that were not discovered during the title search.

Attorney Opinion Letter vs. Title Insurance Policy

Ohio Broker Direct presents a detailed comparison for your consideration:

Risk Protections for Homeowners Attorney Opinion Letter Standard Policy Extended Policy ALTA Homeowners Policy
Record Defects, Liens, Adverse Claims, Encumbrances, or Other Unknown Not Covered
Forgery or Fraud with the Execution of Documents Not Covered
Mental Incompetence or Undue Influence of the Grantor Not Covered
Missing or Undisclosed Heirs Not Covered
Improperly Probated or Misinterpreted Wills and Trusts Not Covered
Conveyance by a Corporation or Partnership without Legal Authority Not Covered
Conveyance by a Minor Not Covered
Incorrect Legal Descriptions Not Covered
Non-Delivery of Deeds or Delivery of Deed after Death of Grantor Not Covered
Clerical Errors in Recorded Legal Documents Not Covered
Unmarketable Title as Insured or Lack of Legal Access Not Covered
Unrecorded Liens Not Covered  
Survey and Boundary Issues Not Covered  
Claims by Parties in Possession Not Disclosed in Public Records Not Covered Not Covered
Claims to Easements or Easements Not Disclosed in Public Records Not Covered Not Covered
Existing Violation of a Subdivision Law Impacting the Land Not Covered Not Covered Not Covered

Table courtesy of Ohio Broker Direct, your Ohio Flat Fee MLS Listing Service Real Estate Professionals.

Who Should Pay for It? 

The question of who should bear the cost of title insurance – buyer or seller – is a critical negotiation point in purchase agreements. Practices vary across Ohio, with norms differing in various regions. As such, having options for both Buyers and Sellers so that they’re free to make their own choices is what we believe in. At Ohio Broker Direct, we emphasize the importance of buyer and seller awareness and the right to negotiate each item individually. 

Conclusion

Fannie Mae’s new rules that expand the use of an attorney opinion letter marks an important change for real estate transactions. As these developments unfold, Ohio Broker Direct is dedicated to guiding you through these changes with expertise and a commitment to transparency.

For further guidance on title insurance and the implications of Fannie Mae’s changes, reach out to Ohio Broker Direct. We are here to empower you with knowledge and support in your real estate decisions.

Ohio Broker Direct & its Brokers or Associates assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in this blog, we advise all participants in buying or selling real estate to enlist the services of a Real Estate Attorney.

About the Author

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Joan Elflein, Principal Broker and founder of Ohio Broker Direct, has been a trailblazer in the real estate industry since 1983. She established Ohio Broker Direct, a flat-fee brokerage firm, to champion ethical practices and client empowerment. Joan's innovative services have saved Ohio sellers millions in commissions and earned her firm an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. With over a billion dollars in transactions, you can ensure Joan's decades of experience will provide top-tier professional service and personal care in every interaction. 

Tana Lantry, Senior Broker at Ohio Broker Direct, brings over a decade of expertise in business, commercial, and residential real estate. As the 2017 President of the Columbus Independent Brokers Association, Tana drove change and expanded membership growth. She excels in guiding clients through home buying/selling, commercial sales, and 1031 exchanges. With extensive experience in Self-Directed IRAs, Tana provides comprehensive guidance for real estate investments. Together, Joan and Tana offer unparalleled expertise and dedication, ensuring the highest standards of professionalism and care at Ohio Broker Direct.

Have Questions?

If you have any questions regarding the for sale by owner process, or how we can help you save money while selling your home, please don’t hesitate to contact us today. We will happily answer any questions you may have, and look forward to working with you in selling your home.

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