What is typically the first step taken in securing title insurance?

The first step taken in securing title insurance is conducting a title search. This process involves researching public records to identify any existing claims, liens, or defects associated with the property. The goal is to determine the rightful owner of the property and ensure that they have the legal right to sell it. This crucial step helps to uncover any potential issues that could affect the title before the purchase is completed.

By performing a title search, a title company provides assurance that the title is clear and can be transferred without disputes. Once any issues identified are resolved, the title insurer issues a policy that protects the buyer and the lender from any future claims related to the title.

Other steps, like negotiation of the purchase price, signing closing documents, or obtaining a mortgage, usually follow once a title search has been completed and the title insurance has been secured, underscoring the importance of the title search as the foundational step in this process.