Before buying a home or piece of land, it’s essential to confirm that the title is clear and uncontested. A property title establishes who legally owns the property and identifies any liens, restrictions, or claims tied to it.
If issues go unnoticed, they can delay your closing or cause costly legal complications later. Clarion Title Company conducts thorough title examinations to uncover potential problems early—so buyers, sellers, and lenders can move forward with confidence.
1. Unpaid Liens or Judgments
Liens are among the most common title red flags. These legal claims arise from unpaid debts—such as property taxes, contractor bills, or court judgments—and remain attached to the property even after ownership changes.
How Clarion Title Company Handles It:
We perform comprehensive public record searches to identify outstanding liens or judgments. Our team then works directly with creditors, lenders, or local authorities to confirm that all debts are cleared before closing.
2. Breaks in the Chain of Title
A property’s chain of title is its ownership history. If there’s a missing or improperly recorded deed, it can create uncertainty about who legally owns the property.
How Clarion Title Company Handles It:
We carefully review all ownership transfers to ensure continuity. If gaps are discovered, our team locates missing documents or facilitates corrective filings to restore a complete, verifiable chain of title.
3. Boundary Disputes or Survey Conflicts
Differences between recorded property lines and physical boundaries can lead to disputes with neighbors—especially when fences, driveways, or structures cross property lines.
How Clarion Title Company Handles It:
We review surveys, plats, and legal descriptions for accuracy. If discrepancies exist, we coordinate with surveyors and property owners to resolve boundary conflicts and update records.
4. Undisclosed Easements or Restrictions
Easements give others the right to use part of your property for a specific purpose—like access to utilities or neighboring land. Restrictions can limit how you use or build on the property. If not disclosed, these can impact your future plans.
How Clarion Title Company Handles It:
We identify all recorded easements and restrictions, then explain their implications before closing. This ensures you understand exactly how they affect your ownership rights.
5. Unknown Heirs or Ownership Disputes
When property passes through inheritance, unknown or unlocated heirs may later claim ownership rights. Disputes can also arise from past co-owners, spouses, or business partners.
How Clarion Title Company Handles It:
We review probate records and court filings to verify rightful ownership. If potential heirship or ownership conflicts exist, we work with legal professionals to resolve them before the transaction proceeds.
6. Errors or Forgery in Past Documents
Clerical mistakes—such as typos, incorrect property descriptions, or missing signatures—can cause confusion in ownership records. In some cases, fraudulent or forged documents can compromise legal title.
How Clarion Title Company Handles It:
We inspect every document for accuracy and authenticity. When errors are found, we file corrections or obtain re-recorded documentation. Title insurance offers additional protection against forgery or hidden defects discovered after closing.
7. Unreleased Mortgages
Sometimes an old mortgage was paid off but never formally released from public records. This can appear as an active lien and prevent a clean title transfer.
How Clarion Title Company Handles It:
We contact the lender to confirm payoff and obtain a satisfaction or release of mortgage, ensuring the record is cleared and the title is free of outdated claims.
Why Early Detection Is Critical
The sooner title issues are discovered, the easier—and faster—they can be resolved. A comprehensive title search not only protects buyers from hidden risks but also keeps closings on schedule.
At Clarion Title Company, we pride ourselves on accuracy, communication, and proactive problem-solving to eliminate obstacles before they impact your transaction.
Protecting Your Ownership with Clarion Title Company
Your title is the foundation of your property ownership. By choosing a trusted, detail-oriented title partner, you’re safeguarding your rights and ensuring a seamless transfer of ownership. Clarion Title Company’s experienced team delivers peace of mind through diligent research and professional care at every step.
Protect Your Property from Hidden Risks
Don’t let unseen title issues delay your transaction. Order a title with Clarion Title Company today and let our experts ensure your title is clean, secure, and ready for closing.