Escrow Agents and Title Insurance

[JOSH ELIOT]

Hi, My credit union is referring me to their title and escrow agents. I know there are a lot of title insurance and escrow agents around to choose from. I have referrals from a few friends here in Los Angeles too. I don't need a realtor for the purchase of my house (different story). Are there any reasons NOT to use the agents the bank is referring me to? Are there competitive rates from other people in those fields? Do I stand a better chance of not getting screwed over if I bring my own people? What do I want to do, what's better for me? Is one agent better than another or are we filling out the same forms so it's cookie cutter to them, ie. same paperwork for both of the agents that will be helping me with these two transactions.