You’re about to buy a home. The excitement is real. Dreams of cozy nights and backyard BBQs are filling your head. But hold on—don’t sign on the dotted line just yet! Before you commit, there’s one important thing you need: a title search.
A title search might not sound very thrilling. But trust us, it can save you from heartache, legal trouble, and surprise bills. Think of it like a treasure map that shows you all the hidden (and possibly cursed) secrets of the property you’re about to buy.
So, what exactly can you learn from a title search? Here are the top five things you need to know.
1. Who Really Owns the Property?
This might sound obvious. But you’d be shocked at how often people try to sell homes they technically don’t own. Maybe it’s a paperwork mistake. Or maybe there’s a long-lost relative who should have inherited part of the house.
A title search reveals the true, legal owner. That way, you won’t end up in a messy court battle over who gets to keep your dream kitchen.
2. Liens That Could Haunt You
Imagine buying a home and then getting a bill for someone else’s unpaid taxes or loan. Yikes! That’s what can happen if there’s a lien on the property.
A lien is basically a legal claim against the home. It means someone is owed money and they’ve marked the house as collateral. The worst part? If you don’t discover it before purchase, it becomes your problem.
A title search pops open all those secret drawers. If there’s a lien, it’ll show up. And you can demand the seller clears it before you sign anything.
3. Outstanding Mortgages
You’d think all mortgages would be paid off before a home is sold. But again, surprises happen. Sometimes sellers forget, misunderstand, or just try to pass the buck.
A title search shows any remaining loans attached to the property. You’ll see who loaned the money, how much is owed, and if it’s been properly recorded. If the seller hasn’t settled things, you’ll know—and you can walk away or ask for a solution.
4. Property Boundaries and Easements
You love the big tree at the edge of the yard. But guess what? That yard might not really be yours. A title search can show official boundaries—and tell you if others have legal access to parts of the land.
Those are called easements. For example, the city might have the right to dig up your front lawn to fix pipes. Or a neighbor could have a shared driveway right through your future garden.
Knowing the boundaries stops future problems with neighbors (and surprise bulldozers).
5. Restrictions and Zoning Rules
You have big plans. A backyard pool, a guesthouse, maybe a chicken coop. But wait—can you legally build any of those things?
A title search will uncover restrictions tied to the property. These rules control what you can and can’t do. Which means less room for unpleasant surprises later.
For example, you might find out it’s in a historic zone with special rules. Or a previous owner may have added agreements that limit what can be changed.
So, What’s the Bottom Line?
Think of a title search as your personal property detective. It digs up details that even sellers might not know. And it could stop you from buying a home that’s more trouble than it’s worth.
Before you sign that contract, do your homework. A title search isn’t just smart. It’s essential. It gives you peace of mind—and possibly saves you thousands of dollars and countless headaches.
So the next time someone hands you a pen and says, “Let’s make this official,” smile and say, “One moment. Let’s take a look at that title first.”
Your future self will thank you!
