After the terms for the purchase of your new home have been agreed upon, you NEED to obtain a title search.  A title search is a way to verify that the seller has the right to sell the property, free and clear of any liens or encumbrances.  If you are unfamiliar with a Title Search and want a more in-depth understanding of the house closing process, learn about these 7 important items to know about a title search and what it does not include.

A Title Search/Examination which is issued in the form of an Attorney Certificate or Opinion of Title does NOT include or cover the following 7 items:

1. Matters not of record;
2. Rights of persons in possession;
3. Questions which a correct survey or inspection of the premises would disclose;
4. Rights to file Mechanic’s liens;
5. Special Taxes and Assessments not shown by the county treasurer’s records; (FYI – title search does not include or research delinquent utilities, which, if not paid are sometimes sent to the County Treasurer to collect with the next tax bill);
6. Zoning and other governmental regulations;
7. Liens asserted by the United States and State of Ohio, their agencies and officers under the Ohio Solid and Hazardous Waste and Disposal Act and Federal Super Fund Amendments (Environmental liens) and under Racketeering Influence and Corrupt Organization Acts (RICO) and receivership liens, UNLESS the lien is filed in the public records of the County in which the proprerty is located.

The purchase of an Owner’s Title Policy of Insurance may protect you against loss with regard to some of the items above listed, however, coverage to include some items may require additional or special search methods; the purchase of or review of a location or stake survey; and/or special endorsements purchased by the Homeowner through the Title Insurance Company.

If you’re buying real estate in Ohio and need help navigating the process, choose All Points Title & Closing in Hamilton, OH. For over 30 years, this trusted and dedicated title insurance company has made the home buying process more secure for everyone involved. To schedule a consultation, call them at (513) 863-7600, or send them a message online.