Services

Title Insurance protects both real estate owners and lenders against loss or damage due to liens, encumbrances or defects in the title to a property. Title Insurance differs from normal insurance in that it protects the insured against the potential event that someone else from the past has a legal claim on the property. Common insurance policies, such as car, health and homeowners, only protect the insured against future events.  Title Insurance is meant to protect policyholders against claims. These claims can be someone trying to claim ownership, fraud or forgery of title documents, easements and other items outlined in the policy.

Closing, or settlement, is the time at which all parties come together to formally transfer title from seller to buyer. Unless the buyer is paying cash for the property, the buyer/borrower will execute all loan documentation to finalize the mortgage at this time as well. The closing agent will prepare all paperwork prior to closing and will act as escrow agent for all funds in and out. After closing, the agent will record the signed documents with the applicable government agency.

A title search is an examination of public records to determine and confirm a property’s legal ownership, and to find out what claims/liens are against the property.

In the case of a prospective purchase, a title search is performed primarily to answer three questions regarding a property:

1. Does the seller have a marketable interest in and the right to sell the property?
2. What kind of restrictions or allowances as to the use of the land exist? These would include, but not limited to, real covenants/restrictions, easements and equitable servitudes.
3. Do any liens exist on the property which need to be paid off at closing? These would include any mortgages, delinquent taxes, mechanic’s liens, and other assessments.

There are several types of title searches that can be performed depending on your needs. Some of those include:

• 60 year full search
• Bringdown/Current Owner
• Environmental and Commercial
• Estates
• Tax Sales
• Rights-of-way
• Foreclosures

We have access to information and documents in numerous counties across Pennsylvania and would be happy to assist you with any necessary copies you may need.