Bulletin: NJ2010004

Dear Associates:

The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance has issued Bulletin 10-10 addressing the propriety of communications between licensed title insurance producers and holders of liens against properties involved in short sale transactions. Specifically, DOBI has addressed communications and negotiations regarding short sale payoff amounts and terms. The Department advises that the 'Debt Adjuster' licensing requirements of N.J.S.A. 17:16G-2 shall not apply to title insurance producers where the following two factors are present:

1. The licensed title insurance producer is attempting to obtain the release of prior liens and encumbrances so that title objections set forth in the title commitment may be properly disposed of and removed, so as to enable the owner to convey and buyer to receive marketable and insurable title; and
   
   
2. The producer receives no additional consideration for engaging in such activity other than payment of sums as approved by the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance and as set forth in the NJ Manual of Rates and Charges upon the consummation of the insured transaction.

Accordingly, New Jersey issuing offices that choose to engage in the settlement process and who address the terms of clearance of lien items by 'short sale' are cautioned against charging any fees for such services outside of the scope of approved Rate Manual charges. The NJDOBI advises that producers who engage in activities within the statutory definition of 'debt adjuster' without being licensed as such are subject to fines and penalties.

If you have questions related to this bulletin, please contact your local underwriting personnel or Stewart Legal Services.

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