It’s a common misconception that the title & escrow industry is slow to adopt new technology. In fact, the industry has long been a forward-thinker when it comes to technological innovation. From the programmatization of title searches in the 1980s to the development of title production software in the 1990s to cloud adoption in the 2000s, the industry has continuously evolved to keep up with modern demands.
As title & escrow technology continues its rapid evolution, companies will need to stay ahead of the curve in order to position themselves for future success. In a recent webinar, “The Future of Technology in the Title & Escrow Industry,” Charlotte Brown, Vice President of Product & Design at Qualia, broke down how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), digital payments, and cybersecurity advancements are shaping the industry’s future. Below are five key takeaways from the session.
1. Modern technology is fundamental to meet rising client expectations
Consumers today have grown accustomed to seamless, digital, and efficient experiences. They expect the same thing when it comes to real estate transactions. Brown emphasized that technology plays a pivotal role in bridging the complexity of title work with the growing demand for an easy and transparent transaction process. Title & escrow companies that embrace technological advancements will be better positioned to meet these evolving expectations and capitalize on growth opportunities.
2. Artificial intelligence is driving a foundational shift
AI was a central theme throughout the webinar. Brown discussed AI’s rapid advancement since 2022, citing a recent Qualia survey which revealed that 90% of title & escrow professionals already use AI tools daily. However, the same survey showed that only 6.6% of title & escrow companies have formal AI policies in place.
Given how quickly AI is taking hold, title & escrow businesses must act now to build AI strategies to guide implementation in a meaningful and secure way across their organization. Some key areas where AI can have a big impact in title & escrow include:
- Enhanced document processing: AI excels at converting unstructured data from documents like CDs and Purchase & Sale Agreements into structured formats.
- Workflow optimization: Sequencing tasks, prioritizing deadlines, and automating routine steps.
- Improved client experience: Delivering real-time answers to client inquiries even after hours.
- Fraud detection: Identifying suspicious patterns to mitigate risks.
- Data analysis: Providing new insights from large datasets.
Importantly, Brown stressed that AI should “assist humans, not replace them.” AI is best used to automate repetitive tasks, allowing skilled professionals to focus on complex and client-facing work. Qualia is already integrating AI across its products, including document processing for order openings, email drafting with embedded order context, and collaboration tools for reconciling closing disclosures.
3. Investment in cybersecurity is critical
As fraud tactics grow evermore sophisticated, title & escrow companies must stay vigilant. Brown emphasized the need for a layered security strategy involving people, processes, and technology.
“You can’t rely on your team having their best day every day,” Charlotte said, underscoring the importance of building systemic defenses that don’t depend solely on human vigilance.
“You can’t rely on your team having their best day every day.”
Charlotte Brown, Vice President of Product & Design, Qualia
4. Digital payments offer speed and security
Digital payments and cybersecurity are deeply intertwined. As the title & escrow industry moves toward the faster, easier payment systems to meet modern consumer demands, the risk of rapid fraud increases. Brown discussed the need for a “walled garden” approach, ensuring that only trusted parties can exchange funds securely.
Technologies like FedNow and RTP are setting the stage for instant payments. However, companies must proceed carefully, ensuring robust protections are in place. Innovations like Request for Payment (RFP) and secure validation processes are expected to transform how earnest money deposits and cash-to-close payments are collected.
5. Qualia is committed to building the future
Brown reinforced Qualia’s mission: to make home buying a simple, secure, and enjoyable experience. The Qualia platform acts as a central hub, securely connecting all parties to facilitate seamless transactions.
To continue providing its users with the most innovative solutions, Qualia’s product roadmap will prioritize:
- Continued AI integration
- Enhanced digital payment solutions
- Strengthened cybersecurity measures
Brown encouraged title & escrow companies to proactively engage with their technology providers to ensure that vendor roadmaps align with the company’s strategic goals. Working with vendors who are committed to staying ahead of the technological curve is one of the best ways to future-proof operations and help drive long-term success.
Conclusion
The title & escrow industry has a long history of technological adoption, and it is at an exciting inflection point as AI drives huge changes in the way companies do business. More than ever, meeting modern client demands requires tech-driven processes. AI is already reshaping workflows, fraud detection, and client engagement—but it must be deployed securely and strategically. In today’s fraught fraud landscape, cybersecurity demands layered, proactive defense strategies that help protect payments that are growing increasingly digital.
The pace of technological change is accelerating, but with the right strategies, title & escrow companies can turn these advancements into opportunities for growth, efficiency, and exceptional client service.
Click below to watch a full recording of the webinar.
