4 minute read
September Preferred Partner Spotlight: Gulf Shores Title
Gulf Shores Title: Trusted Resource
By Dave Danielson
Photos By Sam Whitt Photography
In a business where the moving parts are never in short supply, it is a necessity to have partners you can count on.
One of those that stands at the forefront is Gulf Shores Title.
When you talk with President Jim Owen, you understand how rewarding it is for him and his team to be viewed as a trusted resource in the region through time.
“We were incorporated in February 1985. At the time, I had a partner. We had worked together for a title company since 1978, and it was a branch office of another, still-existing title company here in Mobile,” Jim recalls. “In 1985, we purchased their branch office.”
Made for This
In some ways, it may be no surprise that Jim ended up in the industry. From an early age, he had a close view.
“I was first exposed to the business when I was 17 years old,” Jim remembers. “My father was an attorney who did some searches, and he would take me with him to the courthouse.”
Reputation for Results
The reputation for results at Gulf Shores Title has continued to grow through the years. One reason for that is a strong, local range of capabilities.
“We have our own examiners that do all of our title examinations. We don’t use any independent examiners,” Jim explains. “Plus, we have copies of all the courthouse indices from 1935 forward. We used microfilm before things went digital. Having access to historical records like that is very helpful if you have to dig back into something that’s not online. Our research side and our records are second to none.”
Through time, Gulf Shores Title has continued to add to its archival collection.
“We have acquired records from three different title companies that are no longer in business,” he explains. “So we have records from our own operations since 1978, plus all that we’ve picked up from other companies through the years. That’s helpful to us and our clients.”
Gulf Shores Title has 15 people on the team. While each of them are experienced professionals, Jim emphasizes the importance of enjoying their environment.
“One of the things I always tell anyone before I hire them is that I insist that we have fun at work,” Jim says. “Because if you’re not having fun, you’re not going to be happy. And if you’re not happy, you’re not going to do a good job.”
Life’s Highlights
Away from work, Jim’s world revolves around his family, including his wife, Shelley.
Jim and Shelley enjoy time spent with their children, including Jennifer and Chandler, as well as their grandchildren. In fact, they have three grandchildren, with another on the way.
Free time is taken up with a true love of animals. The Owen family has a rich collection of loving animals, including horses, dogs, cats and chickens. Jim related that he is “reminded each morning as I go about my outdoor chores with the animals that someone must complete the dirty work and do the heavy lifting. At the office and home there are times when that person needs to be me.”
They also enjoy going for boat rides to enjoy the sun going down and the moon rising up … and watching the dolphins and the beauty of the gulf shore region.
Giving back is a priority, as well.
“Our company has been participating in Ecumenical Ministries through time. Their church-based programs help families in need. “Each year they have a Chili Cook-off,” he says. “It’s a big fundraiser that we have enjoyed participating in for over 25 years.”
Building on its Best
Gulf Shores Title has built a reputation for helping their clients achieve results through its history in a number of ways, including a large number of condo closings for new developers.
All along the way, there have been solid qualities that have paved the way for timeless success. Jim proudly states that “I take great pride in seeing people who are employed or were formerly employed at Gulf Shores Title improve professionally and personally.”
“The trust factor is the biggest thing. I’m proud of the fact that people know they can trust us to be confidential and to do it right,” Jim says. “They can trust us to watch over everything and make sure it’s right.”
For more information about Gulf Shores Title: Website: www.gulfshorestitle.com Phone: 251-968-6185 Email: gsteveryone@gulfshorestitle.com
