A property title search is the process of gathering documents that show who has the legal right to own the property in question and, through that ownership, to sell it. While it may seem simple and obvious that the home seller is the owner, there may be hidden claims or liens on the property by other parties that the seller and buyer may be completely unaware of. To avoid any last-minute surprises and guarantee that the buyer becomes the sole owner of the property, a property title search is critical to ensuring any property transaction goes smoothly for all parties. Scott Title Services has been offering the highest quality in property title search services for over two decades to clients throughout New Jersey. Sometimes our clients ask us the question: “Are there any problems that a title search can’t reveal?”
What Issues Cannot Be Revealed in a Property Title Search?
While property title searches from experienced title companies are as thorough as possible, there are some hidden issues that even a diligent title search will not reveal. For example, if the previous owner incorrectly stated their marital status, there could be possible claims to the property from their legal spouse. Fraud and forgery, defective deeds, mental incompetence, confusion due to similar or identical names and clerical errors in the records are all issues that would not be found in a property title search. While these scenarios are rare, it is important to be aware that they exist even after a thorough title search is performed.
How is a New Jersey Property Title Search Conducted?
A property title search usually occurs once an offer to buy a piece of real estate has been accepted. The title company goes through a process of rigorously examining multiple sources to determine if the property is free of liens, pending lawsuits, unpaid taxes, leases, easements, mortgages, and other outstanding issues or restrictions that could impact the transfer of ownership. This includes looking at deeds, divorce cases, county land records, bankruptcy records and other financial judgments potentially attached to the property. A clear property title search means the buyer and lender agree there are no outstanding issues that could crop up after ownership has been transferred.
This process may also include a property survey to ascertain the dimensions of the plot of land the property is located on and to ensure that the property is actually located within those boundaries. A title search is also required in the event that a home or business owner wants to mortgage their property and the bank wants to ensure the transaction.
Experts in New Jersey Property Title Search Services
At Scott Title, we have been conducting rigorous, thorough, and accurate New Jersey property title searches for more than 20 years. Our experienced title search agents take care to ensure all the necessary information and correct documentation is accounted for in each title search we handle. From our office in Shrewsbury, our team has managed title searches for clients in Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex counties, and throughout the rest of New Jersey, simplifying what would be an overwhelming process for our clients and dealing with potential problems before they can cause serious issues. Our in-depth research sets us apart from others in our industry.
