May 15, 2023

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In this comprehensive article, you will learn about the importance of title insurance in real estate transactions, along with the different types of policies available for both owners and lenders. You’ll gain insight into the title insurance process, including title search and examination, addressing title issues, and the issuance of the policy.

The article also discusses the costs and fees involved, such as policy premiums and endorsements, as well as the role of various title insurance professionals like title companies, agents, and attorneys.

Moreover, you will discover common title issues and claims, as well as the benefits and limitations of endorsements and expanded coverage. The article also covers title insurance for different types of real estate transactions, such as residential, commercial, and vacant land properties, along with construction and development projects.

Finally, the article offers best practices for obtaining title insurance, including researching providers, reviewing title commitments, utilizing real estate professionals, and understanding coverage and policy options.

I. Understanding Title Insurance

A. Definition of Title Insurance

Title insurance is a specialized type of insurance policy that protects property owners and mortgage lenders against potential defects in the title or ownership claims over a specified piece of real estate property. It is primarily designed to guard against possible undisclosed risks and legal issues that may arise in the future, such as fraud, forgeries, undisclosed heirs, or unpaid property taxes.

It covers the insured parties for any loss or legal expenses they may incur as a result of such issues. Unlike other insurance policies, title insurance is usually purchased as a one-time premium during the property closing process and lasts as long as the insured party has an interest in the property.

B. Types of Title Insurance Policies

There are two main types of title insurance policies: owner’s policies and lender’s policies. Both policies have the purpose of protecting their respective insured parties against potential title defects and property disputes. Although they have similarities, these policies serve different interests and are typically required at different stages of a property transaction.

1. Owner’s Policy

An owner’s title insurance policy is bought by the property buyer to protect their ownership rights and financial interests in the real estate property they are acquiring. This policy covers the buyer for the full purchase price of the property and provides for the reimbursement of losses or legal expenses incurred due to title defects or disputes.

The owner’s policy remains in effect for as long as the insured or their heirs maintain ownership of the property. The cost of this policy is usually a one-time expense paid during the closing process, and it is often recommended, though not always required, as part of a property transaction.

2. Lender’s Policy

A lender’s title insurance policy is purchased by the mortgage lender to protect their investment interests in the financed property. This policy provides coverage in the event of title defects or disputes that may lead to a reduction in the property’s valuation or possible foreclosure.

The lender’s policy is generally required for any property mortgage transaction, as it ensures the lender’s interests are protected in the event of legal issues affecting the property’s title. The coverage amount of a lender’s policy is typically equal to the loan amount, and the premium is paid by the borrower during the property closing process.

C. Importance of Title Insurance

Title insurance is vital for both property buyers and mortgage lenders as it mitigates potential risks and financial losses arising from title defects or disputes. By securing title insurance, parties involved in a property transaction can:

  • Ensure legal ownership of the property without any undisclosed claims, liens, or encumbrances.
  • Protect their financial investment against possible losses arising from title issues.
  • Secure the transfer of the property’s title without any complications.
  • Facilitate a smoother closing process by reducing the likelihood of unexpected delays due to legal issues.

Ultimately, title insurance offers peace of mind to both property buyers and mortgage lenders by safeguarding their respective interests in a real estate transaction.

D. Coverage Limitations

While title insurance provides robust protection against potential title defects and property disputes, it is not without some limitations. Some of the common limitations in title insurance policies include:

  • Title insurance only covers issues that occurred before the policy’s issuance date, not future events or disputes.
  • Defects or disputes that were known to the insured party but not disclosed during the policy application process are typically excluded from coverage.
  • Certain legal issues or governmental actions affecting the property, such as zoning ordinances or eminent domain matters, may not be covered by the policy.
  • Title insurance policies typically exclude coverage for defects or disputes arising due to the insured party’s own actions or negligence.

Despite these limitations, title insurance remains an essential tool for mitigating risks and protecting the financial interests of property buyers and mortgage lenders in real estate transactions.

II. Overview of the Title Insurance Process

Title insurance is a type of insurance policy that protects property buyers and mortgage lenders against financial loss resulting from defects in the property title. The purpose of title insurance is to ensure that the buyer acquires clear title to the property and that the lender’s interest in the property is protected.

The title insurance process generally consists of four main stages: title search and examination, preparing a commitment or title report, addressing title issues, and issuing the title insurance policy.

A. Title Search and Examination

The first step in the title insurance process is a title search and examination. A title search involves reviewing public records, such as deeds, mortgages, liens, and judgments, to determine the history of the property and identify any potential claims or encumbrances against the property. This search may involve reviewing records from various sources, including county recorder’s offices, courts, and state and local archives.

Once the title search is complete, a title examination is conducted. The title examination is a thorough review of the documents identified in the title search to ensure that the current owner has proper title to the property, and there are no outstanding claims, liens, or other encumbrances that may adversely affect the buyer’s ownership rights. The title examination also checks for any restrictions, easements, or other issues that may impact the buyer’s use of the property.

B. Preparing a Commitment or Title Report

Once the title search and examination have been completed, the title company prepares a commitment, also known as a title report or preliminary title report. The commitment is a written statement that summarizes the findings of the title search and examination and identifies any issues that need to be addressed before the property can be transferred to the buyer. The commitment also sets forth the terms and conditions under which the title company will issue the title insurance policy.

A commitment typically includes a description of the property, the names of the current owner(s), any outstanding mortgages or liens against the property, and any other issues revealed in the title search and examination. It is important for the buyer and the lender to review the contents of the commitment to ensure that they are aware of any potential issues that may affect their respective interests in the property.

C. Addressing Title Issues

Once the commitment has been issued, any title issues identified in the report must be addressed before the property transfer can proceed. Examples of title issues may include outstanding liens or mortgages that need to be paid off, resolving ownership disputes, or correcting errors in the public records.

In some cases, the seller may need to take action to clear any defects in the title, while in other cases, the buyer may need to negotiate with the seller to resolve the issue or seek indemnification for any potential liabilities arising from the title defect.

If title issues cannot be resolved prior to the closing of the property transfer, the closing may be delayed, or in some cases, the buyer may choose to walk away from the transaction altogether. Resolving title issues is a critical step in the title insurance process, as it ensures that the buyer acquires clear title to the property and that the lender’s interest in the property is properly protected.

D. Issuing the Title Insurance Policy

After all title issues have been resolved, and the property transfer is ready to proceed, the title company will issue the title insurance policy. The title policy contains a legal description of the property, the names of the insured parties (i.e., the buyer and the mortgage lender), and the amount of insurance coverage being provided.

There are generally two types of title insurance policies – an owner’s policy, which protects the buyer’s interest in the property, and a lender’s policy, which protects the lender’s interest in the property. While a lender’s policy is typically required by mortgage lenders as a condition of providing financing for the property, an owner’s policy is optional but highly recommended to protect the buyer from potential financial loss resulting from title defects.

In summary, the title insurance process involves a thorough title search and examination, preparation of a commitment or title report, resolution of any title issues, and the issuance of the title insurance policy to protect the interests of the property buyer and mortgage lender. This process helps to ensure that the buyer acquires clear title to the property and that the lender’s investment is protected against potential title-related losses.

III. Costs and Fees Involved

The process of procuring homeowner’s insurance involves various costs and fees. In order to choose the best option that matches your financial capacities and requirements, it is crucial to understand these expenses. Some of the primary costs involved in homeowner’s insurance include policy premiums, endorsements, escrow and closing fees, and other related costs. In this section, we will provide an in-depth analysis of each of these expenses.

A. Policy Premiums

Policy premiums are the amount you pay to your insurance provider regularly to maintain your homeowner’s insurance policy. Premiums are mainly determined by several factors, including the coverage amount, deductible, location of the house, and the policyholder’s individual background such as claims history and credit score.

The coverage amount is directly proportional to the premium. When higher coverage is sought, the premium will also increase. The deductible, which represents the amount you pay before your insurance kicks in, also influences the policy premium. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but it will also mean that you have higher out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a claim.

Furthermore, the location of the house plays a significant role in determining the premium. Homes in areas with a higher risk of natural disasters, crime rates, or costly building materials typically have higher insurance premiums. Personal factors, such as claims history, credit score, and past insurance coverage, may affect the insurer’s perception of risk and, subsequently, your policy premiums.

B. Endorsements

Endorsements are additional coverages or amendments to the standard homeowner’s insurance policy. These are optional and often come with additional costs. Homeowners can tailor their policies to include endorsements that cater to their specific needs or cover specific high-value items. Some common endorsements include-

  • Scheduled Personal Property Endorsement: This provides coverage for high-value items like jewelry, antiques, and other collectibles that may be inadequately covered under a standard policy.
  • Water Backup Endorsement: This covers damages caused by water backup from sewer systems, drains, or sump pumps.
  • Home Business Endorsement: If you run a business from your home, this endorsement can provide extra protection for your business-related assets and liabilities.

Keep in mind that adding endorsements to your policy will increase your overall premium, which may add to your long-term financial burden.

C. Escrow and Closing Fees

Homeowners insurance is usually required as part of the mortgage closing process. Lenders often require borrowers to maintain insurance coverage to protect their investment in the property. In most cases, the first year’s premium is paid upfront during the closing, and the insurance premium is included in the monthly mortgage statement. The premiums for the insurance policy are then transferred from the escrow account to the insurance provider.

Closing fees may vary, depending on your location and the insurance provider. It may include fees for determining your insurance premium, taxes or assessments related to the property, and potentially other lender fees. It is essential to consult with your mortgage lender and insurance agent to understand all the associated escrow and closing fees involved with your property.

D. Other Related Costs

There might be some additional costs related to homeowner’s insurance that homeowners should be aware of. After a claim, you may need to pay additional costs to reinstate your policy, or your insurance provider might increase your premium due to the increased risk associated with the claim. It is also worth considering that some insurance companies offer discounts or reduced rates for certain risk mitigation measures, such as installing security systems or having a claim-free history.

Understanding and evaluating all the costs and fees involved in procuring homeowner’s insurance is crucial in choosing the insurance plan that best suits your needs and financial capacity. Ensure you do thorough research, consult with insurance agents and mortgage lenders, and consider your individual requirements and finances when selecting your homeowner’s insurance policy.

IV. Role of Title Insurance Professionals

Title insurance professionals play an essential role in the real estate transaction process, ensuring that property titles are clear and free from any issues that could potentially create financial and legal problems in the future. These professionals include title companies, title agents, escrow agents, and real estate attorneys, each with their unique set of responsibilities and skills.

A. Title Companies

Title companies are integral to any real estate transaction, as they are responsible for investigating the property’s title and determining its validity. They conduct a thorough examination of all public records related to the property, such as deeds, mortgages, liens, judgments, and tax records. This comprehensive search helps the title company identify any potential issues or irregularities with the property’s title.

Once the title search is complete, the title company issues a preliminary report, also known as a title commitment, which outlines any issues discovered during the investigation. Title companies also work closely with other professionals involved in the transaction, such as real estate agents, lenders, and attorneys.

In addition to conducting title searches, title companies often offer other related services, including closing and escrow services. They also issue title insurance policies, which protect the property owner and lender against unforeseen issues that may arise with the title in the future. This coverage is crucial in the event of any disputes, as it can save property owners from substantial financial losses.

B. Title Agents

Title agents act as intermediaries between title companies and other parties involved in a real estate transaction, such as buyers, sellers, real estate agents, and lenders. They are responsible for coordinating communication and documentation efforts between these parties, ensuring a smooth and efficient closing process.

Some of the key responsibilities of title agents include reviewing the title commitment, addressing any issues or concerns raised in the report, preparing and coordinating the signing of closing documents, collecting and distributing funds associated with the transaction, and ensuring the proper recording of documents in the public records.

Title agents must have extensive knowledge of real estate and title laws, as well as strong organizational and communication skills. They may work as independent contractors or be employed by title companies, real estate agencies, or law firms.

C. Escrow Agents

Escrow agents act as neutral third-party professionals in real estate transactions, safeguarding the funds and documents involved in the closing process. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that all conditions set forth in the purchase agreement are met before the funds and property ownership are transferred between the buyer and the seller.

Some of the tasks performed by escrow agents include receiving and holding deposit funds, managing the payment of outstanding liens and other charges on the property, preparing and recording closing documents, and disbursing funds relating to the transaction. They also work closely with title agents and companies, real estate agents, and lenders, facilitating communication and coordination between all involved parties.

Escrow agents are typically employed by escrow companies, which may be affiliated with title companies or operate as independent entities. They must have extensive knowledge of real estate laws and procedures and are usually required to be licensed and bonded.

D. Real Estate Attorneys

Real estate attorneys are legal professionals who specialize in matters pertaining to property law. They provide invaluable guidance and representation to buyers, sellers, lenders, and other parties involved in real estate transactions.

Some of the services provided by real estate attorneys include reviewing and drafting contracts, conducting title searches and addressing any discrepancies, providing legal advice on zoning and land use issues, and representing clients in disputes or legal proceedings related to the transaction.

In certain jurisdictions, real estate attorneys are required to handle the closing process, whereas, in others, they may be optional. However, in complex transactions or those involving high-value properties, it is often beneficial to have the expertise of a real estate attorney on hand.

Attorneys who specialize in real estate law must have a law degree and be licensed to practice in the state where they operate. They may work as sole practitioners, in law firms specializing in real estate law, or as part of a larger firm’s real estate practice group.

V. Common Title Issues and Claims

Title issues and claims can complicate the process of buying, selling, or refinancing a property. They can adversely impact the property’s value and marketability and can lead to legal disputes. To mitigate the risks associated with such issues, it is essential to identify and address them before they cause problems.

This section discusses five common title issues and claims: easements and restrictions, liens and judgments, boundary disputes, fraud and forgery, and unrecorded rights and interests.

A. Easements and Restrictions

Easements and restrictions are legal rights granting the use of, or placing limitations on, a property. Easements grant non-owners the right to use a portion of the property for specific purposes, such as access to a neighboring property or utility services. Restrictions place limitations on the property’s use or impose conditions on future improvements.

These title issues can cause complications for property owners, as they limit their rights and may affect the property’s value. It is crucial to identify and understand the nature of any easements and restrictions before purchasing or selling a property. A thorough title search and examination can reveal any existing easements and restrictions, allowing the parties involved to resolve potential issues.

B. Liens and Judgments

Liens and judgments are legal claims against a property, typically related to outstanding debts or legal disputes. Liens secure debts owed by the property owner, such as mortgage loans, unpaid taxes, or construction-related debts. In case the owner fails to repay the debt, the lienholder has the right to foreclose on the property to repay the amount owed.

Judgments arise from legal disputes and can result in a judgment lien being placed on the property. A judgment lien is a legal claim resulting from a court judgment against a property owner, usually for unpaid debts or damages.

Both liens and judgments can hinder the property’s marketability, affecting the owner’s ability to sell or refinance the property. To resolve these issues, the property owner must settle the debts or disputes leading to the lien or judgment.

C. Boundary Disputes

Boundary disputes occur when two or more property owners disagree over the location or extent of their respective property boundaries. These disputes can result from poorly-defined property descriptions, conflicting surveys or maps, or errors in public records.

Resolving boundary disputes often involves hiring a professional surveyor to determine the accurate boundary lines and potentially renegotiating property lines with neighboring property owners. Failure to resolve boundary disputes can lead to legal battles and decrease the property’s marketability.

D. Fraud and Forgery

Fraud and forgery are unlawful actions perpetrated to manipulate property ownership or financial transactions. Fraud involves providing false information or concealing facts to deceive another party. Forgery refers to the act of creating, altering, or using a false document to deceive others.

Examples of fraud and forgery affecting property titles include forged deeds, mortgages, or releases, and identity theft to obtain mortgage loans using another person’s information. These issues can lead to significant financial and legal consequences for the victims and can be challenging to resolve.

To protect against fraud and forgery, property owners should conduct in-depth title searches and examinations and acquire title insurance. Title insurance provides financial protection against covered risks associated with property title defects, including those resulting from fraud and forgery.

E. Unrecorded Rights and Interests

Unrecorded rights and interests refer to legal claims or rights that are not officially documented in public records. Examples include unrecorded easements, leases, or contracts for deed.

These issues can impact a property owner’s rights and the property’s marketability. Even though these rights and interests are not recorded, they can still create legal disputes and affect a property’s clear title.

To uncover and address unrecorded rights and interests, property buyers should perform thorough due diligence, including obtaining a reliable title search and examination, consulting with an experienced real estate attorney, and acquiring title insurance.

VI. Endorsements and Expanded Coverage

Title insurance endorsements serve to modify or enhance the standard coverage offered in a base title insurance policy. These endorsements expand coverage for specific risks and situations that are not part of the standardized policy. In this section, we will discuss common types of title endorsements, their benefits, and the limitations of these endorsements.

A. Common Title Endorsements

  1. Survey Endorsement: A survey endorsement provides coverage against issues related to inaccurate or conflicting survey data. In other words, if the seller’s survey description of the property contains errors or discrepancies, the title insurance company with survey endorsement will address these discrepancies, ensuring that the buyer is acquiring the correct legal boundaries of the property.

  2. Restrictive Covenant Endorsement: This type of endorsement provides coverage for any violations of restrictive covenants recorded on the property. For example, if a buyer discovers a restrictive covenant has been breached, the title insurance company will defend the insured against any claims arising from the violation.

  3. Expanded Access Endorsement: Also commonly known as an “additional access” endorsement, this endorsement provides insurance against the loss of legal rights to access the property. It is usually preferred when the property is landlocked or has limited access.

  4. Environmental Protection Lien Endorsement: This endorsement covers the buyer against environmental protection liens or unforeclosed liens filed against the property, which might result in significant financial loss to the buyer if left undiscovered.

  5. Condominium Endorsement: This endorsement expands coverage for unique issues that may arise with condominium properties, such as unpaid condominium association fees or assessments.

  6. Leasehold Endorsement: This endorsement provides coverage for leasehold properties in which the buyer is only acquiring a leasehold, rather than fee simple ownership.

B. Benefits of Additional Endorsements

  1. Tailored Coverage: By adding endorsements to your title insurance policy, you can create specialized coverage tailored to the specific requirements or concerns of your particular property. This helps address risks associated with unique types of properties or situations.

  2. Increased Protection: Endorsements help mitigate risks that may not be covered under the standard title insurance policy. They provide added protection and peace of mind to the insured, ensuring that the investment is protected against a wide range of potential title issues.

  3. Financial Security: In the event that a claim arises from a risk covered by an endorsement, the title insurance company will defend the insured’s interests, saving them potentially costly legal fees and potential losses.

  4. Facilitate Transactions: Some endorsements may be required by lenders or other parties to a transaction, in order to provide necessary assurances about the property’s status. By satisfying these requirements, endorsements can help facilitate the completion of real estate transactions.

C. Limitations of Endorsements

  1. Increased Cost: Adding endorsements to a title insurance policy will generally increase the overall cost of the policy. It is essential to evaluate the risks associated with your property and carefully consider which endorsements are worth the additional expense.

  2. Not All Risks Are Covered: While endorsements expand coverage beyond the standard policy, they may not cover every possible risk associated with a property. You should consult with your title insurance company to discuss any specific concerns or risks that may not be covered by endorsements.

  3. Availability: Endorsements may not be available for all properties or in all jurisdictions. Some endorsements may be more difficult to obtain, while others may not be offered at all, depending on the location of the property and the risks associated with it.

  4. Policy Exclusions: Some title insurance policies contain specific exclusions, which may still apply even if endorsements are added to the policy. The insured should review their policy and any applicable exclusions carefully, to ensure they have a thorough understanding of their coverage.

VII. Title Insurance for Different Types of Real Estate Transactions

A. Residential Property

Title insurance is crucial for residential property transactions as it protects the buyer from potential ownership disputes and legal claims related to the property. Residential title insurance typically protects the buyer if any legal issues arise due to existing liens, unpaid taxes or assessments, errors in the property’s legal description, undisclosed heirs, and fraudulent transactions. Lenders may also require the buyer to purchase a lender’s title insurance policy to protect their interests, which is separate from the owner’s title insurance policy that protects the buyer’s equity in the property.

In addition to the standard title insurance coverage, buyers can also consider purchasing an enhanced policy that offers additional protection for residential properties. Enhanced policies may cover post-policy forgery, mechanic’s liens, and boundary disputes. Buyers should discuss their options with their title insurance provider when purchasing a home to ensure they have adequate protection.

B. Commercial Property

Title insurance for commercial properties serves a similar purpose as in residential transactions. However, commercial policies may cover additional issues that are unique to commercial properties. This could include zoning and land use disputes, environmental hazards, and complex lease agreements.

Commercial title insurance policies are typically more expensive than residential policies, as these types of real estate transactions involve a higher level of risk. Commercial properties are often larger, more expensive, and more complex, increasing the likelihood of encountering potential title issues.

When purchasing title insurance for a commercial property, it is essential to work with an experienced title insurance provider who can carefully research the property’s history and identify any potential issues that may arise.

C. Vacant Land

Vacant land can also present unique challenges and risks that may necessitate title insurance. For example, sometimes the boundary lines of vacant land are not clearly defined, making it difficult to determine the exact property lines. This can lead to disputes with neighboring property owners or overlapping claims to the property.

Title insurance for vacant land can help protect buyers from issues related to inaccurate or incomplete property surveys, encroachments, easements, and other disputes that might impact their ability to use or develop the land. As with residential and commercial properties, buyers should work with a knowledgeable title insurance provider when purchasing vacant land to ensure they receive comprehensive protection.

D. Construction and Development Projects

Construction and development projects involve a unique set of challenges that can create additional title risks. For example, property developers sometimes rely on multiple sources of financing, which can create competing liens on the property. Furthermore, construction projects may involve disputes over permits, environmental concerns, and contractor or subcontractor liens.

Title insurance for construction and development projects may require additional endorsements to cover these added risks. Working with an experienced title insurance provider is especially important for construction projects to ensure that any potential title issues are identified and addressed before construction begins.

VIII. Best Practices for Obtaining Title Insurance

A. Researching Title Insurance Providers

When purchasing title insurance, it is essential to research and compare providers to find the best coverage and service for your needs. Start by asking friends, family, and real estate professionals for recommendations. Check online reviews and the provider’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau or other consumer protection agencies.

Additionally, inquire about each provider’s experience with your specific type of real estate transaction. Providers with expertise in your transaction type can better anticipate and address potential issues that may arise.

B. Reviewing the Title Commitment

Once you have chosen a title insurance provider, they will issue a title commitment, which outlines any identified issues that must be addressed before closing. Review the title commitment carefully and consult with your real estate attorney or agent to ensure that all issues are resolved before the closing date.

C. Utilizing Real Estate Professionals

Real estate professionals such as agents, attorneys, and escrow agents can provide invaluable advice and guidance in obtaining title insurance. They can assist in the research and selection of a title insurance provider, reviewing the title commitment, and negotiating suitable coverage terms. In addition, they can help manage the closing process and ensure all parties are protected.

D. Understanding Your Coverage and Policy Options

It is important to understand the coverage provided by your title insurance policy and any additional endorsements that may be necessary to protect your interests. Review the standard coverage and additional policy options with your title insurance provider to ensure that your policy adequately addresses potential risks related to your specific real estate transaction.

In conclusion, title insurance is an essential component in protecting a buyer’s investment during a real estate transaction. By following best practices and working with experienced professionals, buyers can navigate the process of obtaining title insurance and protect their interests in various types of real estate transactions.

Title Insurance Process FAQs

1. What is title insurance and why is it necessary during the home-buying process?

Title insurance is a policy that protects a homeowner or lender against financial loss resulting from title defects or claims against the property. It is necessary because it safeguards against potential issues, such as liens, forged documents, or fraud, which could jeopardize the ownership of the property.

2. How is the cost of a title insurance policy determined?

The cost of a title insurance policy is typically based on the purchase price of the property and can vary depending on the region and the title company. Rates may be negotiable, and it is recommended that homebuyers shop around for a policy that best suits their needs and budget.

3. When is the title insurance process initiated in the home-buying transaction?

The title insurance process usually begins once a seller accepts a buyer’s offer on a property. The escrow or closing agent is responsible for obtaining a title search and issuing the title insurance policy after assessing the search results for potential title issues and resolving them.

4. What is a title search, and why is it a critical step in the title insurance process?

A title search involves examining public records and historical documents to determine the legal ownership of a property and identify any potential issues affecting the title. This step is critical because it ensures that the buyer receives a clear title and protects against future claims and disputes.

5. Can title issues be resolved before purchasing title insurance?

Yes, title issues can often be resolved before purchasing title insurance. The escrow or closing agent will work with the seller to address any identified issues, such as satisfying outstanding liens, correcting legal descriptions, or obtaining necessary signatures on documents.

6. Is title insurance a one-time purchase, or do homeowners need to renew it periodically?

Title insurance is a one-time purchase made during the home-buying process, and it protects the homeowner for as long as they or their heirs own the property. There is no need to renew or pay ongoing premium fees once the policy is issued.

About the Author

As a native Washingtonian, Carlos Reyes’ journey in the real estate industry began more than 15 years ago when he started an online real estate company. Since then, he’s helped more than 700 individuals and families as a real estate broker achieve their real estate goals across Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC.

Carlos now helps real estate agents grow their business by teaching business fundamentals, execution, and leadership.

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