Let’s take a look at how to do a title search, when it makes sense to do so, and what you should do with the results of your title search.

Title insurance protects both you and your lender from any losses if the title of your home is not actually free of claims. Title searches are normally conducted as part of getting the title insurance you need when you’re buying a home. These searches reveal who legally owns the property, the condition of the title, and whether there are any liens against it. This can include a mortgage if the owner has one, or even problematic liens filed for unpaid debts, like a mechanics lien. Title search fees vary, but they generally range $75 to $200. Once the title company has ensured that the title is clear, you’ll have the option of purchasing title insurance.

The process for completing a title search will vary depending on where you live. Some states, such as California, keep online records that make it simple to complete a search. Let’s walk through an example of completing a title search, including the major steps you’ll take and how to find the information for your own county.

Determine the Parcel Number

Every property has a parcel number, which is a series of numbers used to identify the home for tax purposes. If you own the home, this number will be on your annual property-tax bill. For another home’s parcel number, you can search online with the county tax assessor’s office. For example, if you want to do a title search on a house in San Francisco, you would search the San Francisco County Office of the Assessor-Recorder.

Search for the Property

Once you’ve navigated to your county’s website, enter in the property’s information to start the search. The exact process will vary according to your county. Typically, you will enter the street address, the parcel number, or the planning application number to find the records for the property. In some cases, you’ll need to travel to your local records office in person.

Review Property Records

Once you’ve found the property, you’ll be able to investigate sales records, liens, and other information about the home.

What To Do With Title Search Results

If you discover negative information on a property you want to buy, you’ll need to consider what to do next, depending on what you discovered. A search that reveals a lien against a home is not uncommon. A lien may be a mortgage the seller needs to pay off with the proceeds of the sale. To resolve the issue, you may have to work with the seller. If you can’t resolve more serious title issues, you may want to consider looking for another property to buy. If your title search comes up clean, you can move ahead with your homebuying plans. This means that the title is registered correctly under the owner’s name, the property has no liens, and there are no other disputes on the property.

The Bottom Line

A title search is a common part of the homebuying process. Title companies often conduct this search for you, but you can also do a title search on your own. Most states and counties maintain online databases of public records in which you can easily search records. Having the parcel number and address available can make completing a title search on the property simple.