Title researchers investigate property titles to uncover any obstacles or problems that could affect ownership transfer or ownership itself. They confirm ownership, liens, legal interests, property details, and restrictions, and check appraisal rates. They need excellent research skills and relationships with relevant institutions.
A title researcher sifts through public records to learn as much as possible about a property title. While individuals can conduct title searches on their own, most prefer to consult with professionals because the process can be time-consuming and arduous, and title researchers are adept at uncovering information that may be difficult to find. People typically hire a title search during escrow as part of their investigation of a potential property purchase, and title searches may also be needed to refinance a property, take out a construction loan, or purchase property insurance.
When a title researcher is hired, he or she can perform a full or limited search, depending on the client’s needs. In both cases, the purpose of the search is to uncover information that could become an obstacle to the transfer of ownership or become a problem for the owner. For example, a title search may reveal that a parcel is technically landlocked, with no help from neighbors to reach the nearest road.
During a title search, the title searcher confirms that the stated owner of the property actually owns it and that there is no lien on the property, such as a mortgage or judgment against the property owner. Title searchers also look for people with a legal interest in a property, such as an absentee co-owner. They also confirm property details, making sure property descriptions and boundaries are accurate.
Title researchers also look at restrictions that may be in place, such as easements, lost mineral rights and other issues. This is designed to help people avoid unpleasant surprises. If, for example, someone buys property with timber rights that have been sold to a timber company, the timber company has the right to access the property and remove the timber. Title searchers are also used to check appraisal rates, which can vary depending on the location of the property. For example, one might be surprised to learn that in addition to a standard one percent property tax rate, they are also required to pay an additional half percent city tax.
A title researcher needs excellent research skills and good relationships with people who have property title information. This includes regional land registry offices, title companies and banks. Most title searchers are computer savvy, but they are also capable of looking at older records stored in ledgers and should have a keen eye for problems. If a title researcher does not identify a problem with a property, he or she may be liable.
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