Services l Title Services l Title Search
Understanding the Property Before You Move Forward
A thorough title search helps uncover matters in the public record that may affect property ownership or the transfer of title. Fitch Title Agency Inc. carefully reviews available records to help identify potential title issues before closing.
CLARITY BEFORE CLOSING
A Clear Title Starts with a Careful Search
Before ownership of real estate changes hands, it is important to understand the history of the property’s title. A title search examines available public records and other relevant title information to identify matters that could affect ownership, use, or the transfer of the property.
Our team helps bring those details together so potential title matters can be evaluated and addressed as the transaction moves toward closing.
What Is a Title Search?
A title search is an examination of available public records associated with a property and its ownership history.
The purpose is to determine the apparent ownership of the property and identify recorded matters that may affect title, such as liens, judgments, easements, restrictions, or other interests.
The information discovered during the search becomes an important part of the title examination and closing process.
What May Be Reviewed During a Title Search?
Property & Ownership
• Current ownership information
• Prior ownership records
• Deeds and recorded transfers
• Property descriptions
Liens & Financial Matters
• Recorded mortgages
• Certain liens
• Judgments appearing in the record
• Other recorded financial interests
Property Interests
• Easements
• Restrictions
• Rights affecting the property
• Other recorded encumbrances
Public Records
• Recorded documents
• Relevant court/public records
• Tax-related records when applicable
• Other available title information
WHY IT MATTERS
Identifying Potential Issues Before Closing
A real estate transaction involves more than confirming who currently occupies or owns a property. Recorded matters from the property’s history may affect the rights being transferred to the new owner.
Identifying these matters before closing gives the parties and title professionals an opportunity to evaluate applicable requirements and determine what may need to be addressed as part of the transaction.
Confidence at closing begins with understanding what stands behid the title.
COMMON TITLE ISSUES
Liens
Recorded claims that may affect the property.
Ownership Matters
Issues involving the property’s ownership history or recorded interests.
Easements & Restrictions
Recorded rights or limitations that may affect the use of the property.
Document Issues
Certain inconsistencies, errors, or other matters appearing in recorded documents
From Title Search to Closing
Title Search
Available public records and property information are researched to identify matters affecting title.
Examination
The search findings are carefully reviewed and evaluated as part of the title examination process.
Resolution
Applicable title requirements and identified matters may be addressed before the transaction moves forward.
Closing
Once applicable requirements are satisfied, the transaction can proceed toward closing.