What is a Title Search in Florida? | Location Title & Escrow

A title search is a comprehensive examination of public records to determine the legal ownership of a property and to uncover any claims, liens, or encumbrances against it. In Florida, this is a crucial step in the real estate closing process, ensuring that the buyer receives a clean and marketable title.

The Purpose of a Title Search

The primary goal of a title search is to verify that the seller has the legal right to sell the property and that there are no outstanding issues that could affect the buyer's ownership rights. Without a thorough title search, a buyer could inherit significant financial and legal problems.

What Does a Title Search Uncover?

A title search can reveal a variety of important information about a property, including:

• Ownership History: It traces the chain of title to ensure it has been transferred correctly over the years.
• Liens and Judgments: It identifies any outstanding debts against the property, such as unpaid taxes, mortgages, or judgments from lawsuits.
• Easements: It uncovers any rights of way that have been granted to other parties, such as utility companies, to access the property.
• Encumbrances and Restrictions: It reveals any covenants, conditions, or restrictions (CC&Rs) that may limit how the property can be used.

Why is a Title Search Important?

A title search protects the buyer from future claims against the property. By identifying and resolving any issues before closing, it ensures a smooth transfer of ownership. It is also a necessary step to obtain title insurance, which protects the buyer and lender from any title defects that may have been missed during the search.