CEO Jeff Bates discusses the rise of remote work in the title insurance industry and its impact on compliance and cybersecurity in a special edition of the Title Report. The world has changed. Remote work […]
Nov 28, 2023
3 min read
So… what are you grateful for?
I know, I know. It’s a question we’ve been asked over and over these past few weeks. And to be sure, even amid a challenging 2023 (and potentially more of the same in 2024), there’s much to be thankful for.
For me, celebrating my 20th year in the title industry, it’s been one of reflection. And with that reflection—a lot of gratitude. Not just for the work we get to do, the clients we serve, and the team I get the privilege to lead.
But gratitude for the industry as a whole—one that’s given so much to all of us.
As we embrace this season, let’s take a moment to reflect on our industry—its challenges, triumphs and the collective strength we possess. And to consider the advocacy efforts that help safeguard it.
Getting Started with TIPAC
In the early days of my career at D. Bello, I found myself immersed in all the ins and outs of title insurance. Local zoning issues, sales tax intricacies—the myriad challenges faced by businesses on a local level were just the tip of the iceberg. I soon realized that our industry operates under a significant regulatory blanket that extends far beyond local concerns.
In fact, labeling our work as "insurance" often led to misunderstandings, as we operate more as "assurance" providers—investing heavily in risk prevention.
This realization sparked my interest in advocacy, a journey that led me to become a TIPAC contributor over 15 years ago. I now have the privilege of serving as its Vice-Chair.
Navigating federal regulations is a necessity to prevent unnecessary burdens on our industry and, ultimately, on consumers. The advocacy journey, for me, was fueled by a desire to educate national policymakers about the unique nature of our product. We needed to ensure that, despite the ebb and flow of regulatory focus, our sector stood strong and independent.
A Victory for Us All
This year, TIPAC achieved one of our most significant victories in challenging the Title Waiver Program. The initial proposal, which aimed to eliminate the title insurance requirements on certain loans purchased, posed a very real and present threat to us all. However, through collaborative efforts and a harmonious alliance between the Title Action Network (TAN), the advocacy arm of ALTA, and the TIPAC, we successfully struck down this potential threat.
The push against this program showcased the direct impact of TIPAC on preserving consumer rights and preventing undue risks.
Our Commitment
At D. Bello, our commitment to the title industry goes beyond our services. It’s why we actively participate in industry associations and why we’ll always be givers to this industry, never takers. Two decades ago, as outsourcing gained momentum, we made a conscious decision to actively contribute, recognizing the importance of helping to grow an industry that benefits all stakeholders.
In fact, every member of our team voluntarily donates to support advocacy, realizing that a thriving industry is the foundation of our success.
Community support will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping our future. Joining the Title Action Network (TAN) is a simple yet powerful way for individuals to contribute. With thousands of people across every legislative district in the country, our collective voice holds immense power and potential. Joining TAN allows us to pool our voices, ensuring that our industry's concerns are heard by policymakers.
So, if you’re ready to make a difference, I invite you to consider joining TAN and becoming a voice for the title industry. Your contribution, big or small, shapes the future of our industry. Together, we can advocate, thrive and ensure a promising future for our community.
