NOVEMBER 2025
Learning Opportunities, Industry Updates, Upcoming Events, and More
Title Tip: Broker vs. Realtor: Who Actually Holds the Contract?
Brittney Soles | TLTA Education Committee Member
We’re back with another Title Tip — our monthly video series offering quick, complimentary education from title professionals across Texas.
This month’s video features Brittney Soles of Cornerstone Capital Bank, sharing clarity on a common point of confusion in residential transactions: who actually holds the authority in a TREC contract?
In
this practical Title Tip, Brittney explains why the agreement is between the broker and the parties, not the individual realtor. Key takeaways include:
- How to quickly verify broker information using TREC’s broker lookup tool, including checking DVAs
- Why commissions can only be paid to the broker unless a Commission Disbursement Authorization (CDA) is issued\
- How these small details help keep your file compliant and avoid delays at closing
Watch Brittney’s Title Tip video here and stay tuned for more insights next month!
Looking to revisit our past installments of the Title Tips Series? Visit the Title Tips Section in TLTA's Online Learning Center here.
This information is being provided by TLTA for educational and reference purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial or business advice from or on behalf of TLTA. Users should consult their own legal counsel and subject-matter experts to ensure that any policies adopted or actions taken meet the requirements unique to their company.
Not Too Late to Register for This Week’s Institute Programs
Dec. 3-5, 2025 | San Antonio
If the Texas Land Title Institute or the Commitment to Closing Pre-Institute Program has been on your radar, good news,
you can still register and join us this week for two of TLTA’s most anticipated education events of the year.
Why make the trip?
This year’s programs deliver the kind of practical, real-world insights you can put to work right away. From cutting-edge case law and legislative updates to probate challenges, AI-driven risks, bankruptcy essentials, and the latest federal developments, these sessions are designed to sharpen your skills and strengthen your practice heading into 2026.
Commitment to Closing – Dec. 3
A one-day, start-to-finish deep dive into the documents, decisions, and nuances that make or break a smooth closing.
Texas Land Title Institute – Dec. 4-5
Our premier advanced title program that features two full days of expert instruction, timely topics, and high-impact learning.
Whether you need CE before year-end, want to stay ahead of industry changes, or simply don’t want to miss the conversations shaping our profession, there’s still a seat for you.
Learn more and register now »
A special thank you to this year's Institute sponsors for making our programs possible!
TLTA Member Recognized as Distinguished Alumnus of The University of Texas
We are proud to share that Gary Farmer, a longtime leader in the Texas title insurance industry, has been named a 2025 Distinguished Alumnus by The University of Texas. Established in 1958, this award is the University’s highest honor for alumni whose accomplishments have made a meaningful impact in their professions, communities, and service to UT.
Gary Farmer, who serves as President of Heritage Title Company of Austin, has worked in the title insurance industry for nearly four decades and has contributed to numerous civic and charitable efforts across the state.
Gary's leadership in business and community initiatives, including his role in founding Opportunity Austin, which helped attract hundreds of companies and jobs to Central Texas, reflects the spirit of service celebrated by this award.
We congratulate all of this year’s Distinguished Alumnus honorees and encourage readers to learn more about the
award and its recipients here.
Security Insights: AI Search Tools: The New Frontier for Content Manipulation
Genady Vishnevetsky | November 2025
AI tools can streamline your work, but what happens when the information they rely on isn’t what it seems? In this
latest Security Insights, Genady Vishnevetsky, Chief Information Security Officer at Stewart Title Guaranty Company, explains how “AI cloaking” works and why it’s an emerging concern for businesses.
Read more »
Westcor Land Title Insurance Company Names Steven D. Black as President and Chief Operating Officer
Westcor Land Title Insurance Company announces the promotion of Steven D. Black to President and Chief Operating Officer.
Read the company's press release »
ICYMI: Registration Now Open for the 2026 Land Title School
March 2–4, 2026 | DoubleTree by Hilton | Austin
Whether you’re sharpening your skills or preparing for professional certification, the Land Title School of Texas offers a one-of-a-kind, hands-on learning experience for title professionals ready to grow.
Offered just once a year and only in person, this program features fresh content, practical workshops, and interactive sessions designed to help you tackle real-world challenges with confidence.
Program highlights include:
- Updated course materials reflecting the latest regulations and best practices
- Interactive workshops offered twice for deeper, hands-on skill-building
- Small group learning for personalized discussion and collaboration
- Advanced title scenarios that strengthen problem-solving and analysis
- Dynamic testing that keeps you engaged and applying what you learn
If you’ve got 3–5 years of experience in the title industry, this program is your next step. It’s an opportunity to expand your expertise, connect with peers, and prepare for TLTA’s professional certification program.
Register now to secure your seat »
Interested in sponsoring this year's Land Title School of Texas?
Contact Josh Meeks to learn more about the unique partnership opportunities available.