What is a title search and why is it performed?

What is a title search and why is it performed?

• A. A survey of property boundaries
• B. An appraisal of property's value
• C. A review of public records to verify ownership and uncover liens, encumbrances, and other title defects
• D. A check of buyer's credit score

Answer: (C)

A title search is the process of examining public records to verify who owns a property and to uncover any issues that could affect transferring that ownership. This involves checking records at the county recorder, the tax assessor, and court filings to confirm the chain of ownership and to uncover liens, encumbrances, judgments, easements, restrictions, or other defects that could jeopardize a clear transfer. Performing a title search helps ensure the seller can convey marketable title and reveals problems that must be addressed before closing. It also ties into title insurance, which protects the buyer against unknown defects. It isn’t about measuring property boundaries (that’s a survey), determining property value (that’s an appraisal), or checking the buyer’s credit score (that’s a credit check).

A title search is the process of examining public records to verify who owns a property and to uncover any issues that could affect transferring that ownership. This involves checking records at the county recorder, the tax assessor, and court filings to confirm the chain of ownership and to uncover liens, encumbrances, judgments, easements, restrictions, or other defects that could jeopardize a clear transfer. Performing a title search helps ensure the seller can convey marketable title and reveals problems that must be addressed before closing. It also ties into title insurance, which protects the buyer against unknown defects. It isn’t about measuring property boundaries (that’s a survey), determining property value (that’s an appraisal), or checking the buyer’s credit score (that’s a credit check).