Consider Title Insurance
Title is a legal document evidencing a person's right to or ownership of a property. Title is passed from seller to purchaser at each transaction. The settlement company or attorney you choose to assist in your closing will conduct a title search on the property you are purchasing. However, they cannot guarantee there are no defects in the title that could not be discovered at that time due to hidden factors.There are two types of title insurance: Lender's Policy and Owner's Policy.
If you are financing a purchase, your lender will require that you purchase title insurance that covers the lender's interest. Lender's title insurance does not cover your interests.
Owner's title insurance will protect you against hidden risks which include:
- Forged documents
- Undisclosed heirs to the property
- Mistaken legal interpretations of will or trusts
- Misfiled documents deeds, liens, mortgage satisfaction documents
- Confusion caused by similarities in names
- Incorrect marital status
- Mental incompetence
- Incorrect legal descriptions
- Conveyance by a minor
There are several types of Owner's Policy Title Insurance. Speak with your title agency to discuss which policy is right for you.