First American Title Insurance Company Acquires Minnesota-Based Complete Title Services, LLC

January 10, 2007

SANTA ANA, Calif., -- First American Title Insurance Company has acquired Complete Title Services, LLC located in Brainerd, Minn. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

A leading provider of title insurance and tax-deferred exchange services in North/Central Minnesota, Complete Title was founded in 1991 by James M. Gammello in Pequot Lakes, Minn. The company now handles a full-range of residential and commercial real estate services from its seven office locations, with a full-time staff of 34 employees. As a First American direct operation, Complete Title will continue to operate under its existing name and management structure, led by Gammello and David M. Lauer. Lauer will serve as president of Complete Title and Gammello as vice president.

"Complete Title is a well-run, profitable business that gives First American a foothold in an 11-county region in North/Central Minnesota," said Steve Mustin, regional vice president for First American Title. "This is an area with significant second-home purchase activity and overall market growth. I look forward to working closely with Dave Lauer and Jim Gammello and their skilled staff in growing First American's presence in the state."

"We're delighted to be joining the First American Family of Companies," said Lauer. "This is a perfect strategic fit for Complete Title at this time, as we combine our current success with the strength of a national title insurance and settlement services leader. First American shares our passion for the highest level of quality, and together we will build a stronger network of title offices throughout Central and Northern Minnesota."

Source: The First American Corporation


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