How Much Do You Know About the Different Types of Title Searches?

A seamless property purchase starts with gaining an understanding of the types of title searches available and the significance of each.

The thrill of finding your dream home can overshadow the importance of a meticulous title search process. However, it’s important to know that there are several kinds of title searches and they’re not created equal. Understanding the differences is crucial for ensuring a smooth and secure real estate transaction.

In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of title searches and identify the pros and cons of each.

Why is a title search so important?

When buying a property, you want to ensure that the title is clear and free from any hidden surprises that could jeopardize your ownership or lead to financial liabilities. A thorough title search helps uncover any outstanding liens, encumbrances, or disputes related to the property, so you can feel confident that you’re acquiring a home with a clean title. Without this search, you risk inheriting the previous owner’s legal issues, unpaid property taxes, debts, or claims on the property, potentially resulting in costly legal battles and major stress. Essentially, a title search protects you from unforeseen complications, ensuring that your homeownership journey has a secure foundation.

1. Full Title Search

Considered the gold standard of property title investigations, a full title search involves a comprehensive examination of public records related to the property. It includes deeds, mortgages, liens, judgments, and tax records, leaving no stone unturned.

Pros:

• Comprehensive and thorough
• Identifies any potential issues with the property’s ownership history
• Provides peace of mind for the buyer

Cons:

• Time-consuming and potentially expensive
• May uncover complex title issues that could delay the purchase

2. Current Owner Search

This type of title search focuses solely on the most recent property transaction. It is intended to verify the current owner’s right to sell the property and ensure there are no recent encumbrances or title defects.

Pros:

• Faster and more affordable than a full title search
• Ideal for properties with a clear and simple title history
• Provides a basic level of assurance to the buyer

Cons:

• Limited in scope, it may miss historical issues with the property’s title
• Not suitable for properties with a complex ownership history

3. Foreclosure Title Search

This type of title search is specifically designed for properties involved in foreclosure proceedings. It examines the foreclosure documentation and related records to ensure a clean transfer of title.

Pros:

• Ensures that the property’s foreclosure process has been conducted legally and that the title is unencumbered.
• Essential for buyers interested in distressed properties

Cons:

• May not uncover title issues unrelated to the foreclosure
• Limited applicability to non-foreclosed properties

4. Lien Search

This search focuses on identifying outstanding liens and judgments against the property. It’s particularly useful for buyers who want to ensure there are no financial encumbrances that could affect the purchase.

Pros:

• Quick and cost-effective
• Assures that the property is free from financial claims

Cons:

• Limited in scope, as it doesn’t address broader title issues.
• May not uncover unrecorded liens or disputes

5. Boundary Survey

This physical inspection of the property’s boundaries is used to confirm property lines and identify any potential encroachments, easements, or boundary disputes.

Pros:

• Ensures that the property’s physical boundaries align with the legal description
• Helps prevent boundary disputes with neighbors

Cons:

• Adds an extra cost to the property purchase process
• May not address all potential title issues, such as liens or ownership disputes

Understanding the type of title searches and the pros and cons of each allows you to embark on your home purchase with confidence. An appropriate, well-executed title search is the key to a secure and trouble-free real estate transaction.

From identifying title defects and errors in public records to resolving boundary disputes and other legal issues, Certified Title will protect your investment now and into the future. Contact us today to learn more or to get started.

About Certified Title Corporation: Since 1994, attorney-owned Certified Title Corporation has been furnishing residential and commercial real estate stakeholders across the nation with robust title insurance, settlement, and escrow services. Renowned for its industry-leading reliability and exemplary level of service and quality, the Maryland-based company helps clients from all walks of life achieve their asset goals. To learn more, call (888)486-5511 or visit https://www.certifiedtitlecorp.com/.