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What Is REALTOR® Safety Month?
Each September, the National Association of REALTORS® dedicates the month to REALTOR® Safety Awareness—a time to spotlight the risks real estate professionals face and the simple practices that can help prevent them.
At Tressler & Associates, we’re committed to supporting real estate professionals not only with smooth closings—but with peace of mind in every part of the job.
Why REALTOR® Safety Matters
Unlike many professions, real estate agents often:
Meet strangers in vacant homes.
Host open houses alone.
Work long hours that stretch into the evening.
Walk into unfamiliar neighborhoods without backup.
While most client interactions are positive, it’s vital to stay alert and protected. Safety isn’t about fear—it’s about being prepared and valuing your well-being as much as your clients’.
7 REALTOR® Safety Tips to Practice All Year
Here are some practical steps you can take to reduce risk on the job:
1. Always Meet New Clients in Public First
Schedule your first meeting in a public place—preferably your office or a well-trafficked coffee shop. Gather basic information and trust your instincts.
2. Use a Buddy System for Showings
If you’re showing a property to a new client or working late, consider bringing a team member or letting someone know where you’ll be and when you’ll check in.
3. Share Your Location in Real Time
Use smartphone apps like Life360 or Find My to let a family member or coworker track your location during showings.
4. Don’t Park Where You Can Get Blocked In
When arriving at a property, park on the street rather than the driveway so you can exit quickly if needed.
5. Keep Personal Info Private
Avoid sharing personal details such as your home address, daily routine, or family information with clients you don’t know well.
6. Trust Your Gut
If something feels “off,” it probably is. Cancel the appointment, call a colleague, or take a break to reassess.
7. Know the Property Before You Show It
Familiarize yourself with exits, rooms with locks, and cell signal strength so you’re never caught off guard.
Tressler’s Commitment to Real Estate Safety
At Tressler, our real estate, title, and legal teams work closely with agents throughout Middle Tennessee. Whether it’s handling legal documentation, facilitating closings, or offering support through Tressler Real Estate—we believe your safety and confidence are non-negotiable.
We’re more than partners at the closing table—we’re part of your community, and we care deeply about keeping it secure.
Final Word
REALTOR® Safety Month is a powerful reminder to protect the most valuable part of your business: you.
Let’s keep each other safe, informed, and supported—not just in September, but every month of the year.
Need help reviewing contracts, titles, or legal risks in your real estate process? Reach out to the team at Tressler & Associates. We’re here to secure your peace of mind—every step of the way.
August may feel like the tail end of summer, but in real estate, it’s prime time for smart buyers and sellers to make their move. While spring tends to get all the attention, late summer offers its own set of unique advantages—and the window of opportunity is still wide open.
Why It’s a Great Time to Sell
Serious buyers are still active. While casual lookers may have faded with the school bell, August buyers are often more motivated to close before fall routines kick in.
Less competition. The spring and early summer frenzy has slowed, so your listing may stand out more in a less crowded market.
Pre-holiday urgency. Many buyers want to be settled before the holidays or before winter weather makes moving trickier.
Why It’s a Great Time to Buy
More negotiating power. With fewer buyers in play, sellers may be more willing to negotiate on price or closing costs.
Interest rate strategy. Buying now could help you get ahead of potential rate changes in the fall.
Quicker closings. With title companies and lenders a little less swamped than in peak summer, your transaction may move faster.
How to Make It a Smooth Process
Late summer deals move fast—so you need a team you can trust. At Tressler, we help make sure your contracts are airtight, your title is clear, and your closing is seamless. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, FSBO seller, or a seasoned investor, we’re here to protect your peace of mind.
Ready to close with confidence? Contact us today to get started.
You’ve probably seen the ads: “Protect your home from title theft!” Companies promising “title lock” services often market fear—warning you that someone could steal your home right out from under you. But what exactly is title lock, and is it something you actually need?
What Is Title Lock?
Title lock is a subscription-based service that monitors your property’s title for any changes or filings. If someone files a document that affects your property—like a lien or deed transfer—you get notified.
Sounds helpful, right? Sort of. But here’s the key: Title lock doesn’t actually prevent fraud. It only tells you after it’s happened.
What Is Title Insurance?
Title insurance, on the other hand, is a one-time purchase made at closing that protects your legal ownership of the property. If a title issue pops up—like an unknown heir, forged signature, or unpaid lien—your title insurance policy helps cover the legal costs to defend your ownership or reimburse your loss.
The Big Difference
Think of it like this:
Title lock = alarm system
Title insurance = homeowner’s insurance
Title lock tells you if something might be wrong. Title insurance actually helps fix it if it is.
So, Do You Need Title Lock?
Probably not. If you already have title insurance from your closing (most buyers do), you have real protection. If you’re unsure, contact us and we can help you review your documents.
Final Thought
Don’t fall for fear-based marketing. Real peace of mind comes from real protection.
Ready to make sure your title is truly secure? Reach out to Tressler Title—we’re here to help you protect what matters.
April is a season of fresh starts and forward motion. As the days get longer and the pace of life picks up, it’s the perfect time to turn your attention to the legal and real estate matters that set the foundation for a smooth year ahead. With tax season wrapping up and the spring real estate market in full swing, there’s no better time to review, refresh, and organize the essentials.
At Tressler & Associates, we’re here to help you tackle these important tasks with confidence. Here’s your April legal and real estate checklist to keep you on track:
1. Review Your Estate Plan Have there been major life changes in the last year—marriage, divorce, new children, or changes in assets? Now is a great time to review your will, trust, healthcare directives, and powers of attorney. Make sure they still reflect your wishes and protect the people you love. Learn more about estate planning here.
2. Revisit Your Business Contracts If you’re a business owner, Q2 is a great time to revisit your client agreements, vendor contracts, and operating agreements. Ensure your contracts still support your growth goals and comply with current laws.
3. Prepare for Spring Real Estate Closings Spring is one of the busiest times for buying and selling property. If you’re planning to move, refinance, or sell, get ahead of the curve by reviewing your title documents, checking for any liens, and ensuring your closing timeline is realistic. Our team at Tressler Title can help you make the process seamless.
4. Check Compliance & Deadlines Now that tax season is winding down, it’s a good time to make sure all your annual filings, renewals, and registrations are current. This applies to both business and property-related documents. Staying compliant helps avoid unnecessary penalties and delays.
5. Organize & Digitize Important Documents Spring cleaning doesn’t stop at your home. Organize and securely store your key legal documents—digitally and physically. Whether it’s your estate plan, contracts, or closing documents, having everything in one place will give you peace of mind and make future transactions much smoother.
Need Help with Your Checklist?
Let Tressler & Associates help you make this spring your most productive season yet. From estate planning and business law to real estate and title services, we’re here to help you grow with confidence.
Spring is here. The days are longer, the flowers are blooming, and it is the perfect time for fresh starts. Just as many people use this season to declutter their homes and reset their goals, it is also a great time to refresh your legal and real estate plans. Whether you are buying or selling a home, running a business, or reviewing your estate plans, now is the time to make sure everything is up to date and working in your favor.
Spring Cleaning Your Legal Documents
As life changes, so should your legal documents. Many people forget to review their estate plans, business agreements, and real estate paperwork until a problem arises. Instead of waiting for an issue, take proactive steps now to ensure you are protected.
Key Documents to Review This Spring
Estate Plans & Wills – Have there been changes in your family, finances, or personal wishes? Make sure your will, trust, or power of attorney reflects your current situation.
Business Contracts – If you own a business, review your contracts, operating agreements, and client agreements. Do they still meet your needs? Are they protecting you as they should?
Real Estate Documents – Whether you are buying, selling, or refinancing, double-check property titles and closing documents to ensure everything is accurate and complete.
Updating these legal documents now prevents future headaches and ensures everything is aligned with your long-term goals.
Is It Time to Refresh Your Business Legal Strategy?
Spring symbolizes growth, making it the perfect time to evaluate your business structure and legal standing.
Ask yourself:
Have you expanded your business or taken on new partners?
Do you need to update your contracts or policies?
Is your business compliant with the latest regulations?
If your business has grown, your legal strategy should grow with it. Now is a great time to sit down with a legal professional to ensure your business is structured for success.
The Spring Real Estate Market Is Heating Up
Spring is one of the busiest times for real estate. More homes hit the market, and more buyers are looking for their dream home. If you are planning to buy or sell this season, make sure you are prepared.
Homebuyers: Secure your financing early, work with a trusted title company, and ensure all documents are in order before closing.
Sellers: Make sure your title is clear, contracts are strong, and all legal paperwork is ready before listing your home.
FSBO Sellers (For Sale By Owner): Selling without a realtor? Ensure your contracts, disclosures, and legal paperwork are ironclad to prevent last-minute issues.
A smooth real estate transaction starts with having the right legal support in place.
Do Not Let Legal Gaps Hold You Back This Spring
Small legal oversights can turn into big problems if they are left unaddressed. Whether you are securing a home, growing a business, or planning for the future, spring is the perfect time to make sure your legal documents are working for you, not against you.
At Tressler & Associates, we are here to help with:
Estate planning and wills
Business contracts and structuring
Real estate closings and title services
Spring into Action – Let’s Get Started
Spring is about new beginnings. Let’s make sure you are legally prepared for everything ahead.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and refresh your legal and real estate plans!
Love is in the air! February is all about relationships, and that includes the one between you and your dream home. Finding the perfect place is exciting, but the real magic happens at the closing table. That’s where we come in.
At Tressler Title, we believe real estate and love have a lot in common. Both require trust, commitment, and a strong foundation. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, closing on a property is a big step—one that should feel exciting, not stressful.
Falling in Love with a Home? Here’s What’s Next.
House hunting feels a lot like dating. You explore options, weigh the pros and cons, and wait for that this is the onemoment. But even after finding the perfect home, there’s one more step before you can move in—closing.
The closing process finalizes the deal, transfers ownership, and makes everything official. But if you’re not prepared, it can quickly turn from exciting to overwhelming. That’s why working with a title company that prioritizes clear communication and a smooth process is so important.
A Smooth Closing: The Secret to a Happy Ending
Like any great relationship, a successful closing is built on key elements:
👉 Clear Communication – No guessing games. We keep you informed every step of the way.
👉 Trust & Security – Buying a home is a huge investment. We make sure every detail is correct, so there are no surprises.
👉 A Strong Commitment – First-time buyer or experienced homeowner, we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free.
Avoid a Closing Day Heartbreak
No one wants last-minute surprises or delays. A deal falling through is like getting left at the altar. That’s why choosing the right title company matters. We handle the paperwork, verify details, and keep everything moving smoothly.
Title issues, financing delays, and missing documents can all cause setbacks. But with the right team on your side, closing day can be a celebration—not a headache.
Your Real Estate Love Story Starts Here
At Tressler Title, we make sure your closing is seamless, stress-free, and something to celebrate. Whether you’re buying, selling, or refinancing, we’re here to help.
The holiday season is full of joy and celebration, but it’s also a busy time of year. If you’re buying a home or refinancing, adding a real estate closing to your to-do list can feel like a lot. The good news? With a little planning and the right team by your side, it doesn’t have to be stressful.
Here are some practical tips to help you navigate your closing with ease during the holidays:
Plan Ahead and Stay Flexible
Holiday schedules can be tricky, with office closures, vacations, and end-of-year deadlines. To avoid surprises, start your closing process early and keep the lines of communication open with everyone involved—your lender, title company, and agent. Being flexible with dates can go a long way in keeping things on track.
Keep Your Documents Organized
Closings require paperwork, and during the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s easy to misplace something important. Save time by keeping everything—like proof of insurance, your ID, and any lender documents—together in one spot. Staying organized means fewer headaches for you!
Use Digital Tools When You Can
Busy schedule? No problem. Many closings can now be handled digitally. Tools like e-signatures and virtual meetings can save you time and keep the process moving, even when life gets hectic. At Tressler Title, we’re happy to walk you through these options.
Partner with a Team You Trust
Closing during the holidays doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Working with an experienced title company, like Tressler Title, can make all the difference. Our team will guide you through each step and handle the details so you can focus on what matters most—enjoying your holiday season.
Be Patient with Timelines
Things can move a little slower during the holidays, and that’s okay. Whether it’s waiting on documents or coordinating schedules, small delays are normal this time of year. The key is to stay in touch with your title company and lender for updates and know we’re all working toward the same goal: a successful closing.
Celebrate the Moment
Whether you’re buying a new home or refinancing for savings, this is a big step worth celebrating. Take a moment to recognize how far you’ve come and the exciting opportunities ahead.
Why Choose Tressler Title for Your Holiday Closing?
We know the holidays are busy, and our goal is to make your closing as smooth and stress-free as possible. With years of experience, a friendly approach, and tools to streamline the process, we’re here to help you close with confidence.Ready to get started? Contact us today to learn how we can make your holiday closing a breeze.
In today’s digital age, technological advancements are revolutionizing the legal industry. One such breakthrough is the integration of Chat GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) technology into law firms. This cutting-edge language model, powered by artificial intelligence, has the potential to streamline and optimize various aspects of legal practice. By utilizing certain aspects of Chat GPT, law firms can enhance their efficiency, improve client experiences, and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Legal Research Made Easy
One of the most time-consuming tasks for legal professionals is conducting extensive research to build strong cases and support arguments. Chat GPT can significantly reduce the burden of legal research by providing quick access to relevant information. Lawyers can use the chat-based interface to ask questions or seek guidance on complex legal issues, and the AI model will generate detailed responses based on its vast knowledge base. This saves valuable time and allows legal professionals to focus on higher-level tasks, such as case analysis and strategy.
Automated Document Generation
Law firms deal with large amounts of paperwork. From contracts and agreements to legal opinions and briefs, Chat GPT can automate the document generation process by generating drafts based on predefined templates and specifications. Lawyers can provide the necessary inputs, such as factual details and case notes, and the AI model can generate accurate and customized documents. Chat GPT can help streamline the workflow, minimizes errors, and improves overall productivity.
Enhanced Client Communication
Effective client communication is critical for every law firm. Chat GPT can be utilized as a virtual assistant, interacting with clients through chat interfaces and addressing their inquiries in a prompt and personalized manner. This ensures clients receive timely updates and clarifications, fostering stronger client relationships. Moreover, Chat GPT can assist in providing initial legal advice, screening client inquiries, and offering general information on legal processes, thereby improving accessibility and client satisfaction.
Predictive Analytics and Case Assessment
Another valuable application of Chat GPT in law firms is its ability to analyze large volumes of case-related data and provide insights. By leveraging machine learning techniques, the AI model can identify patterns, highlight relevant precedents, and offer predictions on case outcomes. This assists lawyers in making more informed decisions and devising effective legal strategies. Furthermore, Chat GPT can assist in risk assessment, aiding in the evaluation of potential legal challenges and their associated probabilities.
New Technology Brings New Potential
The integration of Chat GPT technology in law firms has the potential to revolutionize legal practice, offering numerous benefits in terms of efficiency, accuracy, and client satisfaction. By automating tasks such as legal research and document generation, providing enhanced client communication, offering predictive analytics, and facilitating ongoing legal education, Chat GPT can empower law firms to adapt to the demands of the digital age. Embracing this AI-powered technology enables law firms to optimize their operations, deliver better outcomes for clients, and stay at the forefront of the legal profession.
It is important to note that Chat GPT is not a replacement for an educated attorney. However, it is a tool that attorneys may utilize in modern times to be more efficient in practice management.
Photo Credit: James Williams Photography
Want to know the answers to the most frequently asked questions we get from our clients? Check out the top Tressler FAQ and answers.
As a law firm, we get asked lots of questions every day. We don’t mind because we understand people make better decisions when they are fully informed. It’s one of the many ways we are committed to being different from other law firms. We never want you to feel afraid to contact our team. Afterall, you are the reason we do what we do and answering your questions is one way we can help.
These questions are the most asked for a reason, because legal and title services can sometimes be confusing, and everyone goes through moments in their life when they need a legal team they can trust.
Is there a consultation fee to speak with an attorney?
No. At Tressler, we take the time to understand your needs before taking any transactional steps. You will have the opportunity to speak with an attorney about your matter without any upfront financial obligation.
What is a retainer fee?
A retainer fee is an upfront amount of money paid in full for future services performed by our team. We keep our clients updated on the status of their allotted retainer funds as we handle their matter. Should the maximum amount be reached before your matter is complete, our team will reach out before the retainer reaches its limit to discuss next steps. Portions of retainer fees are refunded if the services you requested end up costing less than originally planned. Please reach out to our team if you have any questions about retainer fees.
Do I need an Operating Agreement for my LLC?
Yes. To protect the business’ limited liability status: Operating agreements give members protection from personal liability to the LLC. Without this specific formality, your LLC can closely resemble a sole proprietorship or partnership, jeopardizing your personal liability.
Why should I de-title a mobile home on my property?
Mobile homes have a title exactly the same as a motor vehicle. The title shows the name of the person(s) who legally owns the mobile home. The title alone does not make the mobile home a permanent part of the real estate. The de-titling process legally combines the manufactured home with the land. It is often required by lenders before financing.
Why is a title examination important in a real estate transaction?
A title is a document that shows evidence of right or ownership of real property. If you are purchasing a home or commercial property, it is important to make sure the title is reviewed. The proper transfer of ownership will depend on whether the title is clear and can help you avoid future problems if you wish to sell the property at a later date.
When a real estate dispute arises, is litigation the only option?
Disputes are possible in any legal field, including real estate. If you are dealing with any type of real estate dispute, such as a property defect or boundary dispute, you may be able to resolve the matter outside of the courtroom through negotiation. This will usually be an attorney’s first course of action, with litigation only considered if it is impossible to reach an out-of-court agreement.
Title insurance is a policy that protects you from any issues that may call your ownership into question or keep you from completing your purchase. These issues could include illegal deeds, unknown liens, forged documents, missing heirs and unknown easements. Title insurance provides financial security to address any issues that may arise.
How long does my title insurance policy last?
For a one-time fee, your owner’s title insurance protects your property rights for as long as you or your heirs own the home.
What do I need to bring to my real estate closing?
Some of the items you will need to bring to closing are a photo ID, a cashier’s check made payable to Tressler Title or wire instructions for transferring funds electronically. Don’t worry, our team will reach out before your scheduled closing day to ensure you know all the details and what to expect at closing.
Probate is a legal process that validates the last will and testament of a person who has died, appoints an executor (if one is not named in the will) and oversees the distribution of assets outlined in the will. This process occurs before the deceased’s assets can be distributed. Probate also ensures the deceased debts are paid. When the deceased does not leave behind a will, Tennesse’s intestacy laws determine how their assets will be distributed.
What happens if I die without a will?
If you die without a will in Tennessee, your assets will go to your closest relatives under state “intestate succession” laws.
How do I know if I would benefit from a trust?
Here’s a good rule of thumb: If you have a net worth of at least $100,000 and have a substantial amount of assets in real estate, or have very specific instructions on how and when you want your estate to be distributed among your heirs after you die, then a trust could be for you.
We understand every situation is unique. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We would be glad to speak with you, answer your questions and learn how we can help.
