What Is A Title Search?

During a title search, public records for a piece of real property are examined by a researcher or abstractor in order to determine the events that have occurred in its history. The results of the search are compiled into a report so that any relevant information about a given property can be easily determined for prospective buyers, investors, homeowners, amongst others. A title search is also commonly referred to as a:

• Current Owner Search,
• Ownership and Encumbrance Report,
• Title Abstract,
• Lot Book Search.

Compare our two off-the-shelf current owner searches.

There are many other types of title searches that more specifically address different needs, the more popular being:

• Chain of Title,
• Mineral Rights Search,
• Easement Search,
• Full Search,
• Environmental Search.
• ...view more types

Common notable elements of a standard title search are:

1. Current Ownership:
   • A title search reviews the ownership title chain to assess the current owner(s). This ensures that the current owner(s) has a valid and clear title and that all prior transfers were properly documented.
2. Legal Description:
   • A search may include a copy or typed legal description of the property to ensure it matches the physical property being sold. The legal description specifies the property boundaries, lot size, and location.
3. Tax Status:
   • The title search verifies whether property taxes are up-to-date. Unpaid taxes can result in a tax lien, which must be paid off before the property can be transferred.
4. Judgments and Liens:
   • The search identifies any liens on the property, such as mechanics liens, tax liens, or judgments. These are legal financial claims that must typically be resolved before the property can be sold.
5. Other Encumbrances:
   • A title search will also include any open mortgages recorded against the property, as this is also an encumbrance that is typically paid in the sale or transfer of a property.
6. Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions:
   • A title search uncovers any covenants, conditions, or restrictions (CC&Rs) that could limit how the property may be used. These could include rules set by homeowner associations (HOA) or restrictions in placed by prior owners.