When you’re buying or selling a property, the last thing you want is a delay – or worse, a deal falling apart – because of an unexpected title issue. At Title Resources Inc., we specialize in helping buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals navigate the closing process with confidence. A big part of that is ensuring the property title is clean, clear, and free from problems that could cause complications later.
In this post, we’ll walk through five of the most common title issues that can delay or derail a real estate closing – and explain how working with an experienced title company like ours can help you avoid them altogether.
1. Unpaid Liens or Judgments
One of the most frequent (and frustrating) title issues is discovering an unpaid lien during the title search process. This could be anything from:
- Unpaid property taxes
- Contractor’s liens
- HOA liens
- Child support or divorce-related judgments
If a lien is attached to the property, it must be resolved before the title can legally transfer to the new owner. These liens are often unknown to the seller – especially if they’re inherited or haven’t been occupied in some time.
How We Help:
Title Resources Inc. conducts thorough title searches to uncover any liens or encumbrances early. If we find any, we work with all parties to ensure proper resolution before closing day.
2. Errors in Public Records
Even small clerical errors can turn into major closing headaches. A misspelled name, an incorrect legal description, or a filing mistake could make a title appear flawed or raise doubts about legal ownership.
Examples include:
- Misspelled names on past deeds
- Incorrect property boundaries
- Misfiled or missing documents
How We Help:
We review public records meticulously and flag inconsistencies that could be an issue. If corrections or affidavits are required, we guide the parties through the steps needed to clean up the title.
3. Boundary or Survey Disputes
What looks like a simple property line can sometimes become a legal dispute. If a fence, structure, or driveway crosses the official boundary – or if there’s a disagreement with a neighbor over where one property ends and another begins – it could hold up the sale.
Red flags include:
- Discrepancies between old and new surveys
- Encroachments by neighboring structures
- Easement or access issues
How We Help:
We coordinate with surveyors and review all relevant property documentation to identify and address disputes early. Our goal is to ensure your closing isn’t delayed by something that could have been resolved weeks before.
4. Unknown Heirs or Ownership Claims
In cases where a property is inherited, previous owners may have passed away without a clear will – or with unknown heirs still legally entitled to a portion of the property. If one of those heirs suddenly comes forward with a claim, it can immediately halt the transaction.
You may encounter:
- Unrecorded inheritance claims
- Disputes among surviving heirs
- Previously unknown co-owners
How We Help:
Title Resources Inc. investigates chain-of-ownership records and, if needed, collaborates with probate attorneys to ensure all heirs are accounted for and properly released from the title.
5. Fraudulent or Forged Documents
Although rare, title fraud is a serious risk – especially with properties that have changed hands multiple times or haven’t been actively monitored. Forged signatures, fake notarizations, or fraudulent deeds can call the entire ownership history into question.
Warning signs include:
- Recent deed transfers with unusual circumstances
- Forged signatures on key documents
- Title inconsistencies in the chain of ownership
How We Help:
We check for anomalies, red flags, and potential signs of fraud during the title search. And if you’re purchasing a property, title insurance can provide an extra layer of protection in case a hidden issue emerges later.
How to Prevent These Title Problems
While you can’t control every detail in a real estate transaction, you can choose a title company that takes these issues seriously. At Title Resources Inc., we’ve built our reputation on being thorough, transparent, and proactive throughout the title process.
Here’s how we help avoid delays and protect your investment:
- Comprehensive title searches and document review
- Prompt communication with lenders, agents, and attorneys
- Assistance resolving any issues that do arise
- Offering title insurance for peace of mind after closing
Don’t Let Title Issues Derail Your Deal
Title problems may not always be visible at first glance, but they can cause major delays or even kill a deal if not handled correctly. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or real estate professional, having the right title partner can make all the difference.
Looking for a trusted local title company?
Contact us today to schedule your closing or learn more about our services. Our team is ready to help ensure your next real estate transaction is smooth, secure, and stress-free, whether residential or commercial.
