What is a title search?

Many people who are new to real estate transactions are unsure of what a title search is and how a real estate lawyer can help with this process. A title search is simply the process of retrieving documents that provide evidence of all relevant information about the property. A title search is also sometimes referred to as a title examination. If you would like more information about title searches or are looking for a real estate attorney to perform one, contact Hampden Title today.

A title search is one of the most important parts of a real estate transaction because this examination ensures that the property being sold is actually suitable for sale. If there are encumbrances — such as unpaid tax liens or other restrictions — they will impact whether the property is suitable.

As part of the title examination, we will evaluate restrictions, encroachments, and easements, as well as review the chain of title to ensure that the property is owned completely by the seller.

Search Process

Our real estate attorneys will gather recorded documents that will allow us to get a full understanding of the legal history of the property. We will gather records such as official land records and deeds from government offices. We then review the documents and analyze to see how they affect the property.

Why Get A Title Search?

As we said previously, a title search is important because you should have as much information as possible about the property before you make a large real estate transaction. A clear property title is also essential for both buyer and seller, because it is a legal document that includes the specifics about the property, and it serves as evidence of ownership. A title search is also useful while applying for title insurance, which protects the buyer from any problems that may arise related to the title after the sale that were not revealed during the title search.