Searcher

Summary

The Searcher is responsible for researching property records, preparing title searches, conducting rundowns at closing, and gathering information from various government offices and public records.

This position requires excellent reading and comprehension skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work independently. The successful candidate will be comfortable conducting research, identifying and resolving issues, and communicating professionally with clients and other parties involved in real estate transactions.

Responsibilities

• Research and prepare property title searches of varying complexity.
• Conduct rundowns at closing.
• Research and obtain records from the County Clerk's Office, Erie County Library, and various government offices.
• Work directly with clients to provide information, answer questions, foster strong business relationships, and assist in closing transactions.
• Review historical and current property records for accuracy and completeness.
• Identify discrepancies, missing information, and other issues requiring additional research or follow-up.
• Use sound judgment and problem-solving skills to resolve research issues and locate necessary information.
• Maintain accurate and organized search files and documentation.
• Prepare invoices for completed work.
• Perform general administrative duties related to title searches and transactions.

Job Duties

• Travel to the County Clerk's Office, Erie County Library, and other government offices as needed to conduct research.
• Review physical and electronic property records, including historical documents and handwritten records.
• Read and interpret cursive handwriting found in historical property records.
• Compile information from multiple sources to prepare accurate title search products.
• Scan, file, organize, and email documents and search materials.
• Communicate with clients, attorneys, government personnel, and other professionals in a courteous and professional manner.
• Track and complete assignments within established deadlines.
• Work independently after completion of training, with limited day-to-day supervision.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle property and client information appropriately.

Requirements

• Must be able to read cursive. This is an essential requirement of the position due to the amount of historical handwritten documentation involved in property research.
• Strong reading and comprehension skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Ability to conduct thorough research and follow information across multiple sources.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Professional written and verbal communication skills.
• Comfortable interacting directly with clients and government personnel.
• Basic computer skills, including email, scanning, electronic filing, and document management.
• Ability to travel locally to various government offices and research locations.
• Ability to lift at least 10 pounds, as physical property record books can be heavy.
• Previous title searching, real estate, legal, or public-record research experience is a plus, but not necessarily required.