What primarily occurs during a title search?

During a title search, the primary objective is to verify the seller's legal ownership of the property and identify any liens or claims against the property. This process involves a thorough examination of public records, including deeds, mortgages, tax records, and any legal judgments associated with the property. By ensuring that the seller has clear title to the property, the buyer can proceed with confidence, knowing that there are no undisclosed claims or issues that could affect ownership.

This verification process is critical in real estate transactions to prevent future disputes over ownership and to ensure that the property is free of encumbrances that could hinder the buyer's rights. The title search also plays a vital role in title insurance, which protects against any legal issues that might arise post-purchase.

In contrast, property valuation and appraisal focus on assessing the market value of the property, which does not directly pertain to ownership verification. Neighborhood crime rates are relevant for prospective buyers considering the area but do not affect ownership title directly. Evaluating the property for renting suitability involves assessing its condition and local rental market conditions, which again is outside the scope of the title search process.