Today we’d like to introduce you to Danette Starling.
Danette, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Having developed an interest in Real Estate as soon as I graduated from High school, I began taking every Real estate course available at Southwestern College with the aspiration of going to work for my father who was a real estate broker in Chula Vista, After a few courses my father suggested I apply for a job with a title insurance company he used for his transactions. “Just get a little experience and then you can come work for me” he said. In January 2018 that little suggestion turns 40 years old. I love what I do and have never looked back.
I started as the messenger making bank deposits and picking up microfilmed title plant records,
It wasn’t long and I was training to become a title searcher, Before I knew it I was a residential title officer.
I began learning the commercial side of title in 1996, having learned the commercial side from the best in the business. I have worked alongside and participated in closing some of the largest commercial real estate transactions in San Diego and elsewhere.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The real estate market and the economy is cyclical. From the late 70’s to the early 90’s and again in 2008. Lots of talented title folks were finding themselves out of work. With the choice of either finding a new career or re-inventing wheel. I chose the latter. I loved my work and didn’t want to give up. I worked part time for several prominent consulting firms reviewing title issues and cleaning up defects all while waiting for the market to get better again.
In 2014 After being unemployed for a year. I received a Linked-In Invitation from Nathan Bossers Chief Operating officer of Boston National Title. Little did I know accepting that invitation would turn into the opportunity of a lifetime.
Boston National Title was looking to expand their operations to California and was seeking a Sr. Commercial Title Officer to open a Commercial Title office and lead their team. Nathan refined his search “seeking Commercial Title Officer – California” on the Linked In search site and my profile was the first one to pop up. The job description was the perfect fit for me and BNT. I had the experience to lead the way, and the drive to make it happen. It was meant to be!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Boston National Title – BNT Title Company of CA – what should we know?
Boston National Title- based in Charlotte North Carolina is part of Incenter, a Blackstone portfolio company. With 18 offices throughout the United States Boston National provides settlement services and Title Insurance to Owners and Lenders.
The California Team has two branches, One in Irvine which serves the residential community handing sales and refinances throughout CA; the other branch in San Diego which focuses on the sale and/or refinance of Commercial properties. Transactions include Small Business Loans, Industrial, Medical Facilities, Retail and Food Service, Energy, Right of Way Projects for infrastructure and Public Utilities, Hospitality and Hotels, Ground up Construction, Leasehold properties, Tideland and Marina properties, as well as apartments multi units, Shopping Centers and vacant land.
The Commercial division of BNT Title Company of California is led by Danette Starling – Sr. Commercial Title Officer who over sees the operation in 40 counties within California. Underwriting is provided by your choice of five major underwriting providers licensed in California for title insurance.
Our Service, professionalism and willing to help with even the smallest of details is our top priority. It’s not uncommon for Danette to answer your email, evenings and weekends. That is what sets BNT. Apart from the competition. ” My goal is to be the best at what I do.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Having been in the business for decades I’ve worked with so many wonderful and talented people. When you treat people with respect and help them through tough transactions they remember you. I have a following of lenders, realtors, consultants and attorneys who have supported me throughout my career. I’ve also received a tremendous amount of support from my colleagues and competition who were instrumental in connecting me with the right people to get this off the ground in California.
From leasing space, buying office furniture, hiring employees, and selecting the vendors to make my business work, they were all willing to help. The support has been unbelievable.
Contact Info:
- Address: BNT Title Company of CA
Boston National Title - Phone: Main office no. 619-567-8144
- Email: dstarling@bostonnationaltitle.com
Image Credit:
Coronado Bay -credit Jill Davis
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