Laura Kettlewell
Waterford,MI
Summary
Senior title searcher and title examiner with 19+ years in title resolution, including chain of title review and commitment preparation. Resolve title issues to support accurate, compliant commitments. Bringing new and fresh ideas while contributing prior knowledge to help with the many changes within the industry, helping both co-workers and the company, while having a strong work ethic and dedication to both the Company and the work that is produced. Deliver precise documentation and dependable turnaround for real estate transactions.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Commercial-Residential Title Searcher/Examiner
Stewart Title Insurance Company
Plymouth, MI
05.2010 - 10.2026
- Reviewed public records at county courthouses, register of deeds, and related sources to gather title information.
- Analyzed chain of title to find ownership gaps and encumbrances for accurate property assessments.
- Compiled title commitments in compliance with Stewart Title Insurance Company standards to support smooth transaction processing.
- Identified liens, easements, and other title defects.
- Reviewed legal descriptions for property gaps, overlaps.
- Created maps showing property locations for client review.
- Trained global employees on property searching.
- Team leader. Led global and onshore team members by training on title projects, mapping, and title search sites for Michigan properties. Actively resolved issues, attended meetings, and collaborated on projects.
- Helped initiate and create AIP (Abstractor Incentive Project).
- Helped initiate and create current online worksheet by streamlining workflow navigation within system.
- Initially helped create step-by-step system for beginners to set up proper title commitment.
Senior Commercial-Residential Title Searcher/Examiner
First American Title Insurance Co
Lapeer, Michigan
04.2007 - 10.2010
- Researched public records and reviewed deeds, title abstracts, mortgages, judgments, liens, and plats to confirm real estate ownership.
- Reviewed chain of title to spot issues or defects that could affect property marketability.
- Identified liens, easements, and title defects during property research to ensure clear title and protect client interests.
- Verified file data in title systems for accuracy and completeness, ensuring reliable information for title assessments.
- Prepared maps showing property locations for client review, facilitating informed decision-making in real estate transactions.
- Conducted research and examination of commercial properties for title analysis.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Business Administration
Oakland Community College
Bloomfield Hills, MISkills
- GIS expertise
- Industry software proficiency
- Title Point
- Register of Deeds systems proficiency
- Laredo systems
- Deed Plotter
- Excel
- Sharepoint
- Data Trace
- Attention to detail
- Discrepancy identification
- Problem solving
- Team leadership
- Critical thinking
- Title Examination
Accomplishments
- Top Residential Searcher/Examiner Awards, every year, for 16 years at ASK Services, Inc., for zero percent errors on searches, exams.
- Helped IT Department test and develop the currently used online worksheet and also heavily assisted in other areas of our work system for easier use for all employees.
- Earned Top Commercial Searcher/Examiner multiple years for conducting "Landmark Searches"
Affiliations
- Volunteer at Secord Lake Eagles, Aerie 4121. Pasties fundraiser to help high school kids buy books or any extra items for use in college.
- Volunteer at Secord Lake Eagles, Aerie 4121 for monthly Fish Fry. Fundraiser to help any of the elderly members with unexpected bills or expenses.
- Golfing
- Boating
Timeline
Senior Commercial-Residential Title Searcher/Examiner
Stewart Title Insurance Company
05.2010 - 10.2026
Senior Commercial-Residential Title Searcher/Examiner
First American Title Insurance Co
04.2007 - 10.2010
Some College (No Degree) - Business Administration
Oakland Community College