Abstract of title

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. Used by the title company to produce a title binder.

An abstact of title is also known as a title search or title opinion.

This is one of the first steps of the lending process and often times this abstract is done prior to the home (if this is a purchase) being put on the market.

Items included in an abstract of title include but are not limited to deeds, mortgages, satisfactions, easements, covenants and restrictions.

This is used to determine if there are any claims on the property or land. The abstract of title will help determine if the property can be transferred from party to party free of any claims.

If you are refinancing, any existing liens or mortgages will need to be paid off prior to closing or with the loan proceeds.

An Abstract Of Title by definition is a brief history of the transfers of a piece of land, including all claims that could be made against it.

» DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this article on 'Abstract of title' is a collection of contributions by licensed mortgage professionals and is not the opinion of Broker Outpost LLC. Always consult a licensed professional before applying for a mortgage.