Closing, title & notaryAll terms starting with T
Title insurance
A policy protecting against defects in a property’s ownership history, issued after a search of the public record.
Unlike other insurance, title insurance looks backward. It protects against problems that already exist in the chain of title (undisclosed heirs, forged documents, recording errors, unpaid liens) and is paid once at closing.
The lender’s policy protects the lender for the loan amount and is usually required. An owner’s policy protects your equity and is generally optional but far cheaper bought at closing than later.
Related terms
- Title searchAn examination of public records to confirm ownership and surface liens, easements, or other claims.
- LienA legal claim against a property securing a debt, which generally must be resolved before clear title transfers.
- DeedThe document transferring ownership of real property, recorded in the public record at closing.
- Escrow officer (settlement agent)The neutral third party who holds funds and documents and carries out the closing according to instructions.
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