Title Exams and Title Insurance
Buying a home or property is a significant investment, and it’s crucial to ensure that your ownership rights are secure. At the Law Offices of Darby L. Smith, PLLC, I provide thorough title examination and title insurance services to protect your interests and give you peace of mind throughout the transaction process.
What is a Title Exam?
A title exam, or title search, is an in-depth review of public records to verify the legal ownership of a property and identify any issues that could affect your purchase. This includes checking for:
- Outstanding Liens: Liens are legal claims against a property for unpaid debts. They can come from various sources, such as unpaid property taxes, mortgages, or contractor bills. A thorough title exam helps ensure that no outstanding liens are attached to the property you’re buying.
- Easements and Restrictions: Easements give other parties the right to use a portion of your property for specific purposes, like utility lines or shared driveways. Restrictions can limit how you use your property. Understanding these before you buy is essential to avoid surprises later.
- Ownership Disputes: Sometimes, issues can arise from previous ownership transfers, such as missing heirs or clerical errors in the property’s history. A title exam helps to identify and resolve these issues before they become your problem.
Why Title Insurance Matters
Even with a detailed title exam, some risks can still be hidden. Title insurance protects you from financial loss if a covered issue arises with your property’s title after you purchase it. Here’s how title insurance can safeguard your investment:
- Protection Against Hidden Defects: Title insurance covers defects that might not be discovered during a title exam, such as forgery, fraud, or undisclosed heirs. These issues could otherwise lead to costly legal battles or even loss of property.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have title insurance provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your new property without worrying about unexpected claims or disputes.
- One-Time Premium: Unlike other types of insurance, title insurance requires a one-time premium paid at closing. This policy remains in effect for as long as you own the property, providing ongoing protection against title defects.
How I Can Help
As an experienced real estate closing attorney, I offer comprehensive title examination and title insurance services to protect your investment:
- Thorough Title Exams: I conduct detailed title searches to uncover any issues that could affect your property rights. My goal is to ensure a smooth and secure transaction, so you can proceed with confidence.
- Title Insurance Coordination: I work with trusted title insurance companies to provide you with the coverage you need. I’ll explain your options, answer your questions, and help you select the policy that best fits your situation.
- Guidance and Support: Throughout the process, I’m here to provide you with clear, straightforward advice and to address any concerns you may have. I’m committed to making your real estate transaction as seamless as possible.
Get in Touch Today
If you’re buying a property, make sure your ownership rights are protected. Contact me today to learn more about my title examination and title insurance services and how I can help you secure your investment.
Contact Darby L. Smith, Attorney At Law
6304 Meeting Street, Suite 101, Prospect, KY 40059
Phone: 502-416-0466 | Fax: 502-681-9740 | Email: darby@darbysmithlaw.com
Your partner in real estate transactions and title protection.