Title Insurance

Title insurance protects you against problems with a property’s ownership history that could cost you money after you buy a home. Unlike other insurance (which covers future events), title insurance protects you from past issues that weren’t found during the title search.

Here’s why people usually need it:

1. It protects you from hidden title problems

Even with a professional title search, some issues aren’t discoverable. Title insurance covers things like:

• Undisclosed heirs claiming ownership

• Forged documents or signatures

• Recording errors in public records

• Unknown liens (unpaid taxes, contractor bills, etc.)

• Boundary or survey disputes

2. It prevents you from losing your home or money

If someone later claims they have rights to your property or a past lien surfaces, title insurance:

• Pays legal fees

• Pays to settle claims

• Reimburses you if you lose money or—worst case—your home

3. Lenders require it

If you’re getting a mortgage, the lender will almost always require a lender’s title insurance policy to protect the loan.

4. You can choose to buy an owner’s policy for yourself

This is optional but strongly recommended because it protects your financial interest, not just the lender’s.