When purchasing a property, you expect full and undisputed ownership. However, hidden title issues can sometimes stand in the way of that goal. These issues often stem from events or errors in the property’s past—long before you became involved in the transaction.
A title issue can cloud ownership, making it unclear who truly holds legal rights to the property. Left unresolved, these problems can delay closing or even put your investment at risk. That’s why working with an experienced title company is essential. Crest Title Company specializes in identifying and correcting these issues early, so you can close with confidence and peace of mind.
1. Unpaid Liens or Mortgages
One of the most common problems uncovered during a title search is an existing lien or unpaid mortgage. This occurs when a previous owner used the property as collateral for a loan or failed to pay contractors, taxes, or other debts. Even if the debt isn’t yours, it remains attached to the property until it’s cleared.
How Crest Title Company Resolves It:
Our team carefully reviews public records to locate any outstanding liens or unpaid obligations. We coordinate with lenders, tax offices, and contractors to confirm payment or release of the lien before closing. By ensuring these balances are satisfied, we deliver a clean title that fully belongs to you.
2. Errors in Public Records
Clerical mistakes are surprisingly common in property documents. A misspelled name, incorrect legal description, or recording error can create complications that question ownership or make it difficult to sell the property in the future.
How Crest Title Company Resolves It:
We verify every detail in your title documents against official records. If an error is found, our team works with the appropriate county offices to correct and re-record the documentation. These corrections are made before closing to ensure complete accuracy and avoid future complications.
3. Unknown Heirs or Ownership Claims
When a property owner passes away, their ownership may transfer to heirs—sometimes without proper documentation or legal filings. Years later, an heir may appear claiming a right to the property, even after it has been sold to a new buyer.
How Crest Title Company Resolves It:
Our title searches dig deep into ownership history to identify potential heirship issues. If a possible claim is discovered, we work with attorneys and estate records to confirm rightful ownership. Title insurance also provides protection if an unknown heir surfaces after closing, ensuring your financial and legal interests remain secure.
4. Boundary or Survey Discrepancies
Sometimes, property boundaries on paper don’t match what’s actually on the ground. Fences, driveways, or structures may extend beyond property lines or overlap neighboring parcels. These discrepancies can lead to disputes between property owners.
How Crest Title Company Resolves It:
We carefully review the property’s legal description and any available surveys to verify boundaries. If an issue arises, we coordinate with surveyors, attorneys, or neighboring property owners to resolve disputes before closing. This ensures that you know exactly what land you’re purchasing—and that your ownership is clearly defined.
5. Previous Deed or Ownership Errors
If a past deed was executed improperly—perhaps missing a signature, using an incorrect name, or involving an unqualified party—it can create problems for current buyers. In some cases, prior transfers were not recorded at all, leaving gaps in ownership history.
How Crest Title Company Resolves It:
Our title professionals trace the chain of ownership to verify every transfer. When we identify missing or incorrect documentation, we take steps to correct the public record or secure affidavits verifying rightful ownership. These actions eliminate gaps and protect your legal claim to the property.
6. Undisclosed Easements or Restrictions
An easement grants someone else the right to use part of your property—such as for utility lines, shared driveways, or access roads. If these easements aren’t disclosed, they can limit how you use your land or affect property value.
How Crest Title Company Resolves It:
We identify all recorded easements and property restrictions during the title search and explain their implications. If an easement poses a concern, we help negotiate resolutions or obtain documentation clarifying its limits. This transparency ensures you understand all conditions tied to your property before purchase.
Why Title Resolution Matters
Unresolved title issues can delay closings, create costly legal disputes, or even jeopardize your right to ownership. Addressing these challenges early in the process prevents future stress and financial loss. Title insurance adds an extra layer of protection by covering potential defects that remain hidden despite a thorough search.
With Crest Title Company, you can rest assured that every potential issue is reviewed, resolved, and documented long before you sign on the dotted line.
How Crest Title Company Protects You
At Crest Title Company, we pride ourselves on precision, diligence, and transparency. Our team’s proactive approach to title examination means we catch and fix problems before they become obstacles. From lien resolution to legal document corrections, we manage every detail to deliver a clean, insurable title.
We understand that your home is more than a purchase—it’s a foundation for your future. That’s why we treat every file with the care and thoroughness it deserves.
Protect Your Purchase Before You Close
Don’t let hidden title issues stand between you and your new home. Order a title with Crest Title Company today to ensure a seamless closing and secure ownership backed by trusted expertise.