Real Estate Term
Title Search
An examination of public records to confirm a property's legal ownership and identify any claims.
What is Title Search?
A title search is an examination of public land records to confirm who legally owns a property and to identify any claims against it, such as liens, mortgages, or easements. It is done before closing so any issues can be cleared, protecting the buyer from inheriting hidden problems. A clean title search clears the way for ownership to transfer.
Frequently asked questions
Related terms
TitleLegal ownership of a property.Title InsuranceInsurance that protects against losses from defects in title or ownership.LienA legal claim against a property, often used as security for a debt.DeedA legal document that transfers ownership of real property from one party to another.ClosingThe final step in a real estate transaction where ownership transfers from seller to buyer.
Ready to put this into practice?
Start your property search or connect with a local Sutton agent who can guide you through every step.