A title search is a thorough examination of public records related to a piece of real estate to verify the legal ownership and identify any claims, liens, easements, or encumbrances that could affect the transfer of ownership. In the United States, title searches are a standard part of the real estate closing process.
The search typically covers deed records, court records, property tax records, and other public documents going back several decades. It reveals the chain of ownership, outstanding mortgages or liens, unpaid taxes, judgments against the property owner, easements granting others rights to use the property, and any restrictions on property use.
After completing the title search, buyers typically purchase title insurance to protect against any defects that may not have been discovered. In New York, both lender's title insurance (required by most mortgage lenders) and owner's title insurance (optional but recommended) are available. For international buyers unfamiliar with U.S. property law, title insurance provides crucial protection and peace of mind. The one-time premium is paid at closing and covers the buyer for as long as they own the property.
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