When you buy property, you expect full and undisputed ownership. However, hidden problems within a property’s history—known as title issues—can cause delays, disputes, or even financial loss if not properly addressed. These issues often trace back to prior owners or documentation errors that occurred years before you entered the picture.
At Clarion Title Company, we specialize in uncovering and resolving these potential problems early, so you can close with complete confidence and peace of mind.
1. Unpaid Liens or Mortgages
Liens are legal claims placed on a property due to unpaid debts—such as taxes, contractor fees, or outstanding mortgages. Even if the debt belongs to a previous owner, it remains attached to the property until released.
How Clarion Title Company Resolves It:
We conduct detailed public record searches to identify any existing liens or unpaid obligations. Our team then works directly with lenders, tax authorities, or contractors to ensure these are properly satisfied and removed before closing, leaving you with a clean title.
2. Errors in Public Records
Clerical mistakes can create serious complications for property ownership. A misspelled name, inaccurate legal description, or filing error can make it unclear who actually owns the property.
How Clarion Title Company Resolves It:
We verify every detail in your title documentation. If errors are found, we coordinate with the appropriate county offices to correct and re-record the necessary documents before closing, ensuring your records are accurate and complete.
3. Unknown Heirs or Ownership Claims
When a property owner passes away, heirs may inherit ownership. In some cases, those heirs are unknown, unreachable, or unaware of their inheritance. If they appear after a sale, they could claim ownership rights.
How Clarion Title Company Resolves It:
Our team researches ownership history and probate records to identify potential heirship claims. If risks exist, we work with attorneys to confirm rightful ownership and resolve disputes. Your title insurance policy also protects you if an undiscovered heir appears after closing.
4. Boundary or Survey Discrepancies
Inconsistencies between property boundaries and what’s recorded in public documents can lead to disputes between neighbors. Fences, driveways, or structures that cross property lines are common causes.
How Clarion Title Company Resolves It:
We review the property’s legal description, plats, and surveys for accuracy. If discrepancies arise, we coordinate with surveyors and legal professionals to clarify and correct boundaries before closing.
5. Undisclosed Easements or Restrictions
An easement gives another party—like a utility company or neighbor—the right to use a portion of your property. If not properly disclosed, easements can interfere with your intended use of the land.
How Clarion Title Company Resolves It:
We identify all recorded easements and explain their impact. Our team ensures you fully understand how they affect your property before closing, so there are no surprises after the purchase.
6. Fraudulent or Forged Documents
Though rare, forged signatures or fraudulent deeds in a property’s history can compromise ownership. These cases can be difficult to detect without professional review.
How Clarion Title Company Resolves It:
We carefully examine all documents in the title chain for authenticity and consistency. If forgery or fraud is suspected, we address it immediately with the proper authorities and provide title insurance coverage that protects you from future claims.
7. Unreleased Mortgages or Old Claims
Sometimes, a previous mortgage was paid off but never formally released in the public record. This can appear as an active lien and delay the sale or refinance.
How Clarion Title Company Resolves It:
We contact lenders to confirm payoff and obtain official releases or satisfactions of mortgage. Once recorded, this clears the property’s title for transfer.
How Clarion Title Company Protects You
Our job goes beyond simply issuing title insurance. Clarion Title Company takes a proactive approach—researching, verifying, and resolving potential issues before they can impact your closing. We communicate clearly throughout the process, ensuring you understand what’s being reviewed and why it matters.
No matter how complex a title issue may be, our team has the experience and resources to deliver a smooth, timely resolution.
Protect Your Investment Before You Close
Don’t let hidden title issues stand in the way of your home purchase. Order a title with Clarion Title Company today to ensure your property is free of claims, errors, and surprises before closing day.