METROPOLITAN TITLE ACQUIRES TWO CENTRAL INDIANA TITLE COMPANIES

 HOWELL, MI.  (May 15, 2000) -- Metropolitan Title Company, based in Howell, Michigan, has acquired Johnson-Wert Title of Kokomo, Indiana, and Markley Title of Logansport, Indiana. Both title companies, which will assume the Metropolitan Title Company name, were owned by Phillip B. Wert and his son, Andrew Wert. The acquisition became official earlier this month.

 "This is an outstanding opportunity for our customers and employees," said Phillip B. Wert, who has retired from a position within the organization. "In this case, certainly the sum of the parts is greater than the whole. Metropolitan Title is a great company that will carry on Johnson-Wert Title's concern for customers and employees alike — and to a greater degree possible than a company of our size."

"To further meet the regional needs of our customers, we began our search three years ago for a progressive, employee-oriented company with which to align ourselves," added Andrew Wert, who will be managing the operations at the two title locations. "Our research pointed us directly to (president) Ken Lingenfelter and Metropolitan Title Company.  For over a year, we have worked closely with Metropolitan Title management to ensure a smooth transition for our employees and customers."

Founded in 1979 by Lingenfelter, Metropolitan Title Company has a history of consistent growth. Key to their impressive growth over the last two decades is a dual emphasis on both human resources and advanced technology. A hallmark of the company has been progressive adaptation of technological innovation for title agency customers. These innovations have created a more efficient system for all customer real estate transaction needs — from professional real estate closing to 1031 tax deferred exchange.

"Because Johnson-Wert Title / Markley Title share commonality with us in their commitment to automation, this merger will only strengthen both organizations in pursuit of our collective goals," said Lingenfelter.

Metropolitan Title Company is the largest independent title agency in the State of Michigan and the second largest agency in the nation.  Headquartered in Howell, Michigan, Metropolitan Title also has regional centers in Rochester and Holland, Michigan; Mishawaka, Indiana, and Lombard, Illinois.