Title
Direct definition
Legal ownership of a property, evidenced by a chain of recorded documents.
Written by the Vabasso Mortgage Editorial Team · Reviewed against agency and federal sources · Read our editorial policy for how we research and review mortgage content
Plain-English explanation
Clear title means no unresolved claims. Title issues discovered before closing are typically fixed during escrow; issues discovered after are covered by title insurance.
Why it matters
You want title free of encumbrances that could challenge your ownership.
Where you may see it
- Deed
- Title commitment
- Title insurance policy
A real-world example
A title company clears an old paid-off mortgage that was never released before your closing.
Educational and illustrative only
A common misunderstanding
Holding title isn't the same as being on the mortgage — a person can be on title without being obligated on the loan, and vice versa.
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This glossary provides general educational information. Mortgage terminology, qualification methods, forms, timelines, fees, program rules, and legal meanings may vary by lender, investor, loan program, property, occupancy, state, and transaction. Definitions do not represent loan approval, legal advice, tax advice, or a commitment to lend.
- Author
- Vabasso Mortgage Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Vabasso Mortgage Licensed Advisory Team
- Last reviewed
- July 30, 2026