About Us

Sure, we may perform title and escrow services, but at First American Title Company of South Dakota, everything we do focuses on the people we work with. We enjoy watching our clients close the deals that matter most to them, and we are proud to be an integral part of the real estate landscape. Locally owned and operated in Rapid City since 1974, our clients enjoy personalized attention, accompanied with the benefits of a trusted national underwriter.

Customer service and professional integrity come first in our business, and we are proud of recent recognition in our field. In January, our underwriter, First American Title Insurance Company, presented the prestigious Director’s Choice Award to First American Title Company of South Dakota. This award was presented to only two title agents in the entire Northwest Division and was based on many performance factors. This company-wide distinction establishes our position as an industry leader.

Clients continue to count on First American Title Company of South Dakota for reliable, knowledgeable service and transactions that run smoothly throughout every step. Our staff has the expertise to deliver the most comprehensive title and escrow/closing services in the state. Whether you are buying, building, refinancing, leasing, selling, investing, or participating in a 1031 tax deferred exchange, First American Title Company of South Dakota is able to provide the necessary title insurance and closing services. For all of life’s most important transactions, turn to your partners at First American Title Company of South Dakota.

Sam Benne, President and Owner

After growing up in the tourist town of Wall, SD, Sam attended college at South Dakota State University and graduated with a degree in Commercial Economics. He then went on to work as a commercial banker in western South Dakota for 15 years before becoming President of First American Title Company of South Dakota in 1994. Sam and his wife Joyce have five boys, all of whom have been raised in Rapid City. Sam is active on several local boards and committees including the Rapid City YMCA, the Badlands Natural History Association, Westside Wrestling Club and the Rapid City Community Development Corporation.

Mitch LaFleur, Vice President and Owner

A lifelong resident of Rapid City, Mitch is a graduate of Stevens High School, The University of South Dakota, and The University of South Dakota School of Law. He practiced law in Rapid City for 20 years with his father and brother prior to joining First American Title Company of South Dakota as a Partner in the title business in April of 2001. He has been with First American Title Company of South Dakota ever since. Mitch and his wife Maureen have two children, Erin and Steven. He currently serves on the South Dakota Electronic Recording Commission. He has previously served as a Director and President on the Board of the South Dakota Land Title Association and regularly serves on their Legislative Committee. He also has previously served on the State Board of Elections for South Dakota, as a Bar Commissioner with the South Dakota Bar Association and as a legislator in the South Dakota State Senate.