Stewart Title of Island County, Wash., Serves Whidbey and Camano Islands

June 2, 2006

HOUSTON -- Stewart Title of Island County has opened in Oak Harbor, Wash., to serve Whidbey and Camano Islands, located in Puget Sound north of Seattle.

The office was formed by Stewart Title Co. in partnership with Steve Metcalfe and Judy Metcalfe, now serving as the office's president and assistant vice president. Steve had served as manager of the local Land Title Co. for almost 19 years and Judy had worked there as well.

I had partnered with Stewart Title several years ago with an operation in Moses Lake," said Steve Metcalfe. "I've really enjoyed working with Stewart managers and staff, and realized there would be many benefits to hearing new ideas from a bigger company.

"For instance, we've already installed SureClose®, Stewart's online transaction management system, here in the office," he added. "We are working on implementing it to help local real estate agents and their buyers and sellers track the progress of their closings online.

"I think that's a great example of the fact our new operation offers the best of both worlds - experienced local staff to provide great service, with the support of a large global company to back it up," added Metcalfe. "Providing additional value to our clients is critical in today's marketplace."

Oak Harbor is the largest city on Whidbey Island and the home of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. The island is also the home of Deception Pass State Park, Washington's most popular state park.

Source: Stewart Title Co.


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