What Is Title Insurance?
Title insurance protects your ownership claim against past issues with the property you couldn’t have known about — liens, forged signatures, unpaid taxes, boundary disputes — that surface after closing.
Why It Matters
It protects the biggest purchase most people ever make, for a one-time cost at closing that covers you for as long as you own the property. A clean title search catches most problems before they ever reach you — the policy is what stands behind you if something was missed.
Optional — a short, anonymized real example from Jim’s escrow background: a title issue caught before closing.
Common Questions
Do I need it if the seller already has a policy?
The seller’s policy protects the seller (and their prior lender) — it doesn’t extend to you. A new owner’s policy is what protects your ownership specifically.
Owner’s vs. lender’s title insurance — what’s the difference?
Lender’s title insurance protects the mortgage company’s interest in the property and is typically required. Owner’s title insurance protects you, the buyer, and is optional — but the one most buyers want.
How much does it cost?
Cost varies by property value and location. It’s a one-time premium paid at closing, not an ongoing expense.
What does a title search actually find?
A title search reviews public records for liens, judgments, unpaid taxes, easements, and ownership history to confirm the seller can legally transfer clear title to you.
Can I choose my own title company?
In most cases, yes — the buyer typically has the right to choose their title company.