Real Estate and Titles
What is a title?
A title is the evidence that allows a person to claim ownership and possession of a property. A defect in that title can allow someone with a legal right other than the owner to claim the property or to make demands on the owner of that property.
What is an abstract?
An abstract is a history of the title to a particular tract of land. It summarizes the material parts of recorded documents affecting the title of the real estate. The abstract is not a guarantee, only a record of what has been recorded. It does not judge the correctness of any items it lists, merely reports them for an examiner to interpret.
What is a title opinion?
A title opinion is a legal examination of the abstract. The opinion outlines the necessary requirements in order to obtain a clear title. Further, it informs the person buying or refinancing of any restrictions to the property.
What is a title commitment?
A title commitment is an offer to issue a title insurance policy. The title commitment will describe the various conditions, exclusions and exceptions that will apply to that particular policy.
Order a Title
To order a title please complete and return the form below to our Charles City office.