PDX Real Estate EP167: How to Future Proof Your Business with Justin Tucker

We're pulling back the curtain on the tech, trends, and title industry shifts that are quietly reshaping the real estate transaction from the inside out.

In this episode, Steve Nassar and Joe Fistolo welcome Justin Tucker of Fidelity National Financial for a conversation that’s part reunion, part reset. It’s all about what comes next.

We’ll unpack how COVID sparked a digital transformation in title and escrow, from Zoom closings to remote online notaries, and why that momentum still faces resistance across county lines and lender requirements.

You’ll hear why January 2025 saw a 20% spike in closed sales over the prior year, why May fell nearly 15%, and why a recent surge in new escrow orders could point to a long-awaited market rebound or just a short-lived summer pop.

Justin shares why consumer protection is now a core part of the customer experience, and how wire fraud threats are forcing title companies to rethink their entire communication strategy.

With interest rates settling in the low 6% range, buyers and sellers are getting creative through strategies like co-buying with friends or holding onto golden-handcuff rentals, which is quietly reshaping the market behind the scenes.

This episode offers timely perspective, real data, and forward-looking insights for anyone serious about staying ahead in today’s unpredictable real estate climate.

 

Key Takeaways

Justin Tucker returns to Fidelity National Financial after years with a competing title company, marking a significant shift in local industry dynamics.

COVID acted as the catalyst for tech adoption in title and escrow, normalizing Zoom closings and remote online notarization.

Title companies now face the challenge of offering both high-tech and traditional in-person services to meet diverse client preferences.

Wire fraud is increasing, making client protection a top priority, even if it adds friction to the customer experience.

Real estate professionals should educate clients that title companies will never send wire instructions via email.

The title industry has seen a significant drop in refinance volume since COVID, with overall production remaining flat or slightly down in 2025.

January and February 2025 showed strong year-over-year closed sales growth, but March and May declined, and June was flat.

A recent surge in new escrow openings may signal renewed activity, though it’s unclear if this is a short-term summer spike or a longer trend.

The “golden handcuffs” of sub-3% mortgage rates are discouraging homeowners from selling, leading to fewer transactions.

Cash deals and creative financing strategies like co-buying and renting out low-rate properties are becoming more common.

Interest rates in the low 6% range have reignited buyer urgency after three years of market stagnation.

Perceptions of future Fed rate cuts and political shifts may influence buyer behavior more than actual policy changes.

 

Connect with Justin

Fidelity National Financial

Justin on LinkedIn

 

Connect with Joe

Soldera Properties

Joe on LinkedIn

 

Connect with Steve

Steve’s Team at Premiere Property Group

Steve on LinkedIn

 

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