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Title Search Requirements Explained

A title search is a crucial step in the home buying or selling process, but many people don't know what it entails. A title search is the process of verifying the ownership and legitimacy of a property's title by searching public records. The goal of this process is to ensure that the seller has the right to sell the property and that there are no outstanding liens, taxes, or other issues that could affect the sale.

A title search typically involves researching various documents related to the property, including: * Property deeds * Tax records * Court records * Assessor's records * Outstanding mortgages and liens

There are several types of liens that may be found during a title search, including: + Mortgage liens: These are liens placed on the property by lenders to secure a loan. + Tax liens: These are liens placed on the property for unpaid taxes. + Mechanic's liens: These are liens placed on the property by contractors or suppliers who have not been paid for work done on the property. + Court judgments: These may be liens placed on the property as a result of court judgments against the owner.

The requirements for a title search vary depending on the jurisdiction, but generally include: * A written request from the seller or buyer * Payment of any applicable fees * The seller must provide any necessary documentation * The buyer may want to review and approve the results of the title search

If issues are found during a title search, they will need to be resolved before the sale can proceed. This may involve paying off outstanding liens or resolving any other issues that were discovered during the search.

Why Is a Title Search Important?​

A title search is an important part of the home buying and selling process because it helps ensure that: * The seller has the right to sell the property * There are no outstanding liens or other issues that could affect the sale * The buyer can obtain clear ownership of the property