TitleHomebuying Glossary
Title Search
A review of public records to confirm a seller legally owns a property and can sell it free of undisclosed claims.
In plain English
A title search examines public records — deeds, liens, judgments, and more — to trace a property's ownership history and confirm there are no unresolved claims that could interfere with the sale.
Why it matters
A thorough title search protects you from unknowingly inheriting someone else's unpaid debt or ownership dispute attached to the property.
Where you'll run into it
Guides and tools on TheBuyingPath that cover title search in context.
Related terms
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