Closing Cost & Title Insurance Calculator
Treworgy & Baldacci provides an online tool to help estimate title insurance premiums and closing costs for real estate transactions.
This calculator is helpful for:
- Real estate agents preparing buyer and seller estimates
- Buyers estimating closing costs
- Sellers reviewing potential closing expenses
Closing Cost & Title Insurance Calculator
Please note that this tool provides estimates only. Actual closing costs may vary depending on the details of the transaction.
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Closinglock Secure Portal
To enhance the security and efficiency of real estate transactions, Treworgy & Baldacci Real Estate Closing Services partners with Closinglock to provide a secure online portal for buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals.
The Closinglock platform allows parties involved in a transaction to securely exchange information and documents without sending sensitive information through email.
What Can Be Done Through the Portal
- Provide and receive wiring instructions securely
- Verify bank account information
- Send or receive closing funds via ACH when eligible
- Upload and share documents securely
- Complete questionnaires related to the transaction
- Communicate securely with the closing team
ACH Payments
For qualifying transactions, Closinglock may allow buyers to send closing funds via secure ACH payment directly through the platform.
Secure Wire Instructions
Buyers and sellers may securely provide or receive wiring instructions through the Closinglock portal rather than through email.
Closinglock Resources
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Continuing Education for Real Estate Agents
Treworgy & Baldacci Real Estate Closing Services is committed to enhancing the knowledge and professionalism of the real estate community through education. Our team regularly offers Continuing Education (CE) classes approved by the Maine Real Estate Commission that are designed to help real estate professionals better understand the closing process, identify potential risks, and provide better service to their clients.
Our courses are based on real-world experiences from title professionals and closing agents, providing practical insights that help agents navigate transactions more effectively.
Treworgy & Baldacci continues to expand an ever-growing catalog of CE courses focused on the real estate closing process, fraud prevention, and industry best practices.
Maine Real Estate Comission Approved Courses
Title, Tools & Teamwork: Understanding the Closing Process for Maine Real Estate Agents
3 CE Credits
This comprehensive course walks real estate professionals through the closing process from the perspective of the title company. Topics include the title search process, title commitments, coordination between agents and closing professionals, and how effective communication among all parties helps ensure a smooth closing. This course is approved for in-person or online (via Zoom).
Mastering the ALTA Settlement Statement
1 CE Credit
This course helps agents better understand the ALTA Settlement Statement, the document outlining the financial details of a real estate transaction. Agents learn how to interpret closing statements, understand prorations and fees, and confidently review settlement statements with their clients.
The Basics of Owner’s Title Insurance
1 CE Credit
This course explains the purpose and importance of Owner’s Title Insurance and addresses common misconceptions buyers often have about coverage. Topics include title risks, the difference between owner’s and lender’s policies, and how title insurance protects a homeowner’s investment.
Remote Online Notarization
1 CE Credit
This course provides an overview of Remote Online Notarization (RON) and how technology is changing the closing process. Agents learn how remote notarization works, when it may be used in a real estate transaction, and the security and identity verification procedures involved.
Processor’s Notes: Tips for a Smooth Closing
1 CE Credit
This course offers practical insights from the perspective of the closing processor and highlights common issues that can delay or complicate transactions. Agents gain helpful tips for preparing files, communicating with closing professionals, and avoiding last-minute issues before closing.
Navigating the Risks of Real Estate Fraud
1 CE Credit
Real estate fraud is an increasing concern nationwide. This course helps agents recognize common fraud schemes and understand how to protect their clients and transactions. Topics include wire fraud, seller impersonation fraud, and best practices for verifying financial instructions.
Host a CE Class at Your Brokerage
Treworgy & Baldacci offers these courses to real estate offices and professional groups throughout Maine. Hosting a CE class is a great way to provide valuable training opportunities for your agents while staying informed about important topics related to real estate transactions.
Schedule a Class or Request More Information
For more information about available CE classes or to schedule a class for your brokerage or organization, please contact:
Bobbie Grenier
Treworgy & Baldacci Real Estate Closing Services
bobbie@treworgy-baldacci.com
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FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule
Beginning March 1, 2026, certain residential real estate transactions must be reported to the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
The rule generally applies to non-financed (cash) purchases of residential real estate when the buyer is an entity such as an LLC, corporation, partnership, or trust.
Treworgy & Baldacci Real Estate Closing Services partners with Stewart FinCEN Reporting Services to assist with compliance and reporting requirements when applicable.
Resources:
FinCEN Reporting Rule
FinCEN FAQs
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FIRPTA - Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act
FIRPTA is a federal law that may require buyers to withhold a portion of the purchase price when purchasing real estate from a foreign seller.
FIRPTA Withholding
If applicable, the buyer may be required to withhold 15% of the gross sales price and remit the funds to the IRS.
Resource:
Total FIRPTA Resource Center
FIRPTA Withholding | Internal Revenue Service
Buyers and sellers should consult their accountant, tax advisor, or a professional FIRPTA service such as Total FIRPTA for guidance. Treworgy & Baldacci cannot provide tax advice.
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Maine Nonresident Withholding Tax
Maine law requires 2.5% of the gross sales price to be withheld when the seller is not a Maine resident.
This withholding acts as a prepayment toward the seller’s Maine income tax obligation.
An exemption or reduction of the withholding tax from the Maine Revenue Services must be obtained prior to closing, and the approval process may take several weeks.
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Real Estate Fraud Prevention & Best Practices
Real estate transactions involve the exchange of sensitive financial information and large sums of money. Unfortunately, criminals increasingly target real estate transactions through various types of fraud schemes.
Buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals should be aware of common fraud risks and follow best practices to help protect their transactions.
Some of the most common real estate fraud schemes include wire fraud, seller impersonation fraud, and vacant land scams.
Wire Fraud
Wire fraud is one of the most common types of fraud affecting real estate transactions. In these schemes, criminals attempt to intercept email communications and send fraudulent wiring instructions to buyers or lenders in an attempt to redirect closing funds.
Best Practices for Buyers
- Always verify wiring instructions using a known, trusted phone number before sending funds.
- Be cautious of last-minute changes to wiring instructions.
- Never rely solely on wiring instructions sent through email.
- Use secure platforms such as transaction portals or encrypted communication tools when available.
Seller Impersonation Fraud
Seller impersonation fraud occurs when a criminal pretends to be the property owner and attempts to sell property that they do not actually own. These scams often target:
- Vacant land
- Investment properties
- Vacation homes
- Properties owned by out-of-state sellers
Fraudsters may use fake identification and attempt to communicate only through email to avoid direct verification.
Best Practices for Real Estate Agents and Sellers
- Verify the identity of sellers early in the transaction process.
- Be cautious if a seller refuses in-person or video communication.
- Watch for requests for unusual disbursement instructions or foreign bank accounts.
- Report suspicious activity to the closing company immediately.
Vacant Land Scams
Vacant land scams are a growing type of seller impersonation fraud where criminals target undeveloped land or unoccupied property. Since these properties often have no occupants, fraudsters may attempt to list them for sale and impersonate the owner.
Best Practices for Buyers and Agents
- Verify ownership through public records.
- Confirm seller identity with the listing agent and closing company.
- Be cautious if a seller requests an unusually quick closing.
- Confirm that all parties involved in the transaction have been properly verified.
How Secure Technology Helps Protect Transactions
Treworgy & Baldacci utilizes secure technology platforms to help protect real estate transactions, including:
- Secure portals for sharing sensitive information
- Identity verification tools
- Secure document exchange
- Encrypted communication systems
These tools help reduce the risks associated with transmitting sensitive information through email.
Report Suspicious Activity
If you suspect fraudulent activity in a real estate transaction, it is important to report it immediately.
Resources:
FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
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Remote Online Notarization (RON)
Treworgy & Baldacci has several authorized Remote Online Notaries on staff and uses the secure platform Stavvy for eligible remote signings.
RON allows documents to be signed and notarized electronically through secure audio-video technology.
Please note that not all transactions are eligible for Remote Online Notarization. Approval from the title underwriter and, if applicable, the lender is required. Be sure to confirm that your transaction qualifies for RON prior to scheduling.
Technology Requirements
- Desktop or laptop computer
- Camera and microphone
- Stable internet connection
- Government-issued photo ID
RON signings cannot be completed on a cell phone.
Some tablets and older laptops may not be compatible with the platform.
RON Resources
Stavvy Resources
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Title Insurance Claims Resources
Treworgy & Baldacci is an authorized agent for three nationally recognized title insurance underwriters—First American Title Insurance Company, Stewart Title Guaranty Company, and Chicago Title Insurance Company. You can have confidence knowing your policy is backed by reputable, financially strong companies committed to handling any claims promptly and professionally.
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Understanding Title Insurance
Title insurance protects property owners and lenders against certain issues affecting ownership.
Owner’s Policy vs Lender’s Policy
Owner’s Policy
Protects the property owner’s financial interest.
Lender’s Policy
Protects the mortgage lender only.
Standard Owner’s Policy vs Enhanced Owner’s Policy
Standard ALTA Owner’s Policy
Provides protection for:
- Unknown liens
- Chain of title defects
- Recording errors
- Forgery or fraud
- Undisclosed heirs
Enhanced / Eagle Owner’s Policy
May provide additional coverage for:
- Certain post-policy title defects
- Zoning violations
- Building permit violations
- Encroachments or boundary issues
- Possible automatic increases in coverage
Estimate Title Insurance Premiums
https://www.treworgy-baldacci.com/closing-costs/
Title Insurance Resources
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What to Expect on Closing Day
Closing day is an exciting milestone, and Treworgy & Baldacci is honored to be part of it. Our team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth, professional, and positive experience for both buyers and sellers. It’s the moment when all the hard work and dedication of your real estate team comes together and truly pays off.
Please let a member of the Treworgy & Baldacci team know if you have any questions or require special accommodations.
Before closing, the closing team will:
- Conduct the title search
- Prepare settlement statements
- Coordinate with lenders and agents
- Schedule signing appointments
Signing Options
- In-person closings
- Mobile closings
- Remote Online Notarization (eligible transactions)
What Buyers Should Bring
- Valid and Unexpired Government-issued photo ID
- Closing funds (wire or certified check)
What Sellers Should Bring
- Valid and Unexpired Government-issued photo ID
- Disbursement instructions for proceeds
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Questions?
If you have questions about the closing process or any of the resources listed here,
please contact us at: info@treworgy-baldacci.com
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is intended for general informational and resource purposes only. While Treworgy & Baldacci Real Estate Closing Services strives to provide helpful and accurate information related to real estate transactions, laws, regulations, and procedures may change and individual circumstances may vary.
Nothing contained on this page should be interpreted as legal advice, tax advice, or financial advice.
Buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals should consult with a qualified attorney, tax advisor, or other appropriate professional to discuss specific legal matters or questions related to their transaction.