Meet Our Extraordinary Team!
Karen Mabe, Founder & Owner
When I reflect on an incredible 27 years in the title and escrow industry, I find myself not only cherishing my professional journey but also deeply appreciating the family that has been my
cornerstone through it all. With six children and eleven grandkids, my life is a beautiful tapestry woven from both my career and my role as a parent and grandparent. Each year in the title and escrow field has been marked by challenges and triumphs, much like raising a large family. The skills I’ve honed—attention to detail, patience, communication, and problem-solving—have served me well both in the office and at home. Navigating complex transactions parallels navigating the dynamics of a bustling household with six kids, where each moment is filled with learning and growth.
In the title and escrow industry, every transaction tells a story. I’ve had the privilege of helping countless families secure their dream homes, providing them with a sense of stability and belonging. Likewise, family has always been the bedrock of my own life. Each of my six children have taught me invaluable lessons about love, resilience, and adaptability, shaping who I am today. Their journeys, along with those of my eleven grandchildren, are a constant reminder of what truly matters—connection and support through all life’s endeavors.
As I continue my career, I look forward to passing down the values I’ve learned in both realms—professionalism, dedication, and the importance of community—to my children and grandchildren. I’m excited to see how they will take these principles into their futures, just as I have done over the past 27 years. In conclusion, my journey in the title and escrow industry is more than a professional milestone; it’s intertwined with the legacy of my family. Each deal closed represents not just a transaction, but a building block for future generations. Here’s to the next chapter—both in my career and in nurturing my ever-growing family!
Sheri Wilder, Escrow Manager
I grew up in the Virginia Beach area and am a proud graduate of First Colonial High School. I met my husband just after graduation, and we have been inseparable ever since. Together we share a love for adventure and our fur-babies. I began my professional career in the automotive industry at Hall Honda. Over the 15 years working there I advanced from an entry-level position to Assistant Parts Manager. This
experience taught me the importance of operational efficiency, clear communication and strong vendor relationships. In 2004, Karen Mabe introduced me to the world of real estate title and settlement. I began this journey by handling post-closing, recording, disbursing funds and ensuring all documentation was in order. In 2009 I became a licensed title agent, solidifying my commitment to this industry. Over the years, I’ve held various positions at a few title companies which gave me firsthand knowledge of the title and settlement process from contract to close and beyond. I specialize in guiding clients through the title and settlement process with accuracy, transparency and care. My goal is to make what can be a complex process feel smooth and seamless. I genuinely enjoy getting to know clients and connecting with them on a personal level during the transaction process. Everyone has a story to share, and I love hearing them! Whether it’s upsizing for a growing family, downsizing into retirement or relocating for a new opportunity
I treasure the things shared by my clients. Hearing these stories keeps me energized and passionate about every transaction. When I’m not in the office, you’ll find me spending time with my husband, fur-babies, family and friends. We enjoy camping, fishing and exploring pet-friendly destinations. I look forward to the opportunity to hear new stories while working together to help you navigate your next real estate journey.
RICHARD MABE Executive Marketing DirectoR PROJECT MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL
I am thrilled to be part of the Coastal Title & Settlement, LLC team as Transaction Coordinator and Closer. I bring a unique blend of industry expertise and project management mastery to the role. As a native to Virginia and being born and raised in Richmond in 1957, I bring that special "Virginian" poise to all I do. I love the mountains, the coast and the rivers throughout our beautiful state. From crabbing and fishing in Mathews and the Northern Neck to hiking Ole Rag Mountain out west and finally settling in Reedville, I love it all. My career has been consistently anchored in real estate, including ten years as a certified Home Inspector, many years of Construction experience and serving as a licensed Real Estate Title Insurance Agent while co-managing Coastal Title & Settlement, LLC, formerly Real Estate Settlement Services, LLC. These experiences are perfectly aligned for Transaction Coordination and have been integrated with Project Management to ensure unique, seamless, professional transactions and closings for every client.
GOOD TO KNOW INFO
Intro to Title Reports
Okay, let’s start with the basics. A title report is a detailed document that shows who legally owns the property and whether there are any claims, liens, or restrictions on it. In other words, it’s a report of everything that could affect your ownership before you buy or refinance – so you know exactly what you’re getting into before making any big moves.
With a title report in hand, you can spot potential problems early and move forward with confidence, knowing you can handle any surprises that come out of the woodwork.
What’s Included in a Title Report?
As your all-in-one heads-up before you buy or refinance, most title reports include:
- Ownership history (who legally owned the property before you)
- Liens and claims (debts or legal claims tied to the property)
- Easements and rights of way (who can access part of the property)
- Property boundaries (the official lines that define the lot)
- Restrictions or covenants (rules that might limit what you can do on the property)
- Legal judgments or pending issues (anything that could complicate ownership)
Who Provides a Title Report?
Another great question! Usually, it’s a title company or sometimes a real estate attorney. They dig through all the records, documents, and legal filings so you don’t have to, checking for anything that could trip you up. This happens as part of the closing process, before you officially take ownership.
When Do You Need a Title Report?
The right time is before you finalize the purchase. Why? Because it’s your chance to catch any issues while there’s still time to fix them. Waiting until after closing could mean expenses you really want to avoid. Getting the report now protects you and gives peace of mind before you sign on the dotted line.
What to Look for in a Title Company
Not all title companies are the same – and we hate to say it – but some are better than others. Keep your options open and your eyes peeled for these important features before deciding on a company:
- Experience: Make sure they know the area and the type of property you’re dealing with. Local expertise means they’re familiar with common issues and regulations that could affect your title.
Detail-oriented: They need to catch anything that could cause trouble later – no shortcuts around here! Remember, even a small oversight can lead to challenges down the road, so don’t take any chances with who you put your trust in. - Good at explaining things: You shouldn’t need a law degree to understand your title report. Opt for a title agent who knows their stuff but also knows how to communicate it to you in simple, plain language that doesn’t leave you scratching your head.
- Quick to respond: Questions will come up – that’s pretty much a given. Still, there’s no reason you should be left hanging for days waiting on the answers you need. Only do business with an agency that prioritizes good communication and speedy responses.
- Title insurance: Huge green flag if they offer this, too. Why? Because it’s an extra safety net in case something gets missed. More on this in the next section!
Bottom line: The right title company gives you peace of mind that your investment is safe.
Do You Need Title Insurance?
Okay, let’s talk about title insurance. You might be wondering, “If I already have a title report, do I really need insurance, too?” The short answer: yes, and we’ll tell you why.
As we now know, a title report is a detailed look at the property’s history and any claims or liens attached to it now, but it doesn’t actually protect you if something gets missed or pops up later. Title insurance protects you from anything the report didn’t catch.
It doesn’t cost a fortune, and it’s usually a one-time fee at closing. And if something does go wrong, you’re protected. Most importantly, you don’t have to worry about paying out-of-pocket for legal battles or unforeseen circumstances that could derail your investment.
Title Reports and Insurance That Have You Covered
Refinancing? Buying? The last thing you want is a surprise in your title. Coastal Title & Settlement makes sure your property’s title is clean, clear, and fully protected.
We handle all the details – spotting potential issues, clearing liens, and providing title insurance – so you don’t have to stress about unexpected claims or ownership questions. Contact us today today to see how our title reports and insurance offerings can safeguard your signing.
