Examination of Title

Definition

  • A review of public records and title abstracts to determine the chain of ownership of a property.

Synonyms
investigate, study, research, survey, evaluation of title, scrutinize, audit

Related Terms and Acronyms

  • Abstract of Title (ab) Abbreviation,
    • A written history of all the transactions that bear on the title to a specific piece of land. An abstract of title covers the time from when the property was first sold to the present.
    AB is a common abbreviation for Abstract of Title when used in property listings and real estate classifieds.
  • Certificate of Title Definition,
    • A written document stating that the title to a piece of property is legally vested in the present owner.
  • Chain of Title Definition,
    • Legal records that trace ownership of a property from the most recent owner to the original owner.
  • Clear Title Definition,
    • Title not burdened by liens or legal questions.
  • Cloud on Title Definition,
    • A claim on title to property that could impair the ability to transfer ownership.
  • Title Report Definition,
    • A report that reveals any competing claims, liens, or other problems relating to a property. A title report is required before title insurance will be issued. Also known as a "Preliminary Title Report" or "Prelim."
  • Title Search Definition,
    • A check of public records to make sure that the owner of real property has the right to transfer ownership. A title search is designed to spot gaps in the chain of title, liens, problems with the legal description of the property, judgements against the owner, and the like.
  • Transfer of Title (TOT) Acronym,
    • A document signed by the seller and purchaser transferring ownership, at which time the document is registered against the property.
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