Resources & Helpful Information

A title company helps facilitate the transfer of property ownership during a real estate transaction. This includes conducting title searches, coordinating settlement services, preparing closing documents, issuing title insurance policies, and helping ensure the transaction is completed properly and efficiently.

Title insurance is a type of insurance that helps protect property owners and lenders against certain title issues that may affect ownership rights to a property. Unlike other insurance policies that protect against future events, title insurance primarily protects against covered issues that may already exist before the property is purchased.

An owner’s policy helps protect the homeowner’s ownership rights in the property, while a lender’s policy protects the mortgage lender’s financial interest. A lender’s policy does not protect the buyer’s equity or ownership interest.

Owner’s title insurance is typically optional, but many homebuyers choose to purchase it to help protect one of their largest investments. It can provide valuable protection and peace of mind long after closing.

Depending on the policy, title insurance may provide protection against covered issues such as title defects, recording errors, unpaid liens, unknown heirs, forgery, fraud, easement disputes, boundary issues, and other covered title-related matters.

A title search is a review of public records related to a property. The purpose is to identify issues such as liens, judgments, ownership disputes, or other matters that could affect the transfer of ownership.

If a title issue is discovered, the issue typically must be resolved before the transaction can move forward. This may involve obtaining documentation, resolving liens, correcting recording errors, or addressing other title concerns.

A real estate settlement, also known as closing, is the final step in a real estate transaction where documents are signed, funds are transferred, and ownership of the property is officially conveyed.

During closing, the parties review and sign transaction documents, funds are distributed, loan documents are finalized if financing is involved, and ownership documents are prepared for recording.

Most closings typically take about 30 minutes to an hour, although timing can vary depending on the complexity of the transaction and the number of documents involved.

Standard title insurance policies generally provide protection against common title defects and recorded issues. Enhanced coverage may include additional protections for certain matters such as permit violations, encroachments, zoning issues, access disputes, and other covered risks.

Common title issues may include unpaid liens, recording mistakes, ownership disputes, unknown heirs, forged signatures, easement conflicts, boundary disputes, or unresolved legal claims against the property.