A title company plays an important role in a home purchase by providing a title search and title insurance services. The title search involves an examination of public records to ensure that the seller has a clear and marketable title to the property, which means that there are no liens, judgments, or other claims against the property that could prevent the seller from transferring ownership to the buyer.
Once the title search is complete and any issues have been resolved, the title company issues a title insurance policy to the buyer. Title insurance protects the buyer and the lender (if applicable) from any claims or defects that may arise in the future regarding the property’s title. This protection typically lasts for as long as the buyer or the buyer’s heirs own the property.
In addition to these services, a title company may also facilitate the closing of the home purchase by handling the disbursement of funds, recording the transaction with the appropriate government agencies, and providing other necessary documentation. Overall, the role of a title company is to ensure a smooth and secure transfer of ownership for both the buyer and the seller.