Title Search
Direct definition
An examination of public records to trace ownership and identify liens or encumbrances on a property.
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
The title company reviews deeds, mortgages, judgments, tax liens, and easements to identify anything that must be cleared before closing.
Why it matters
It surfaces problems in time to fix them before you become the owner.
Where you may see it
- Title commitment
- Closing package
A real-world example
The search finds an unpaid contractor lien; it's satisfied from seller proceeds at closing.
Educational and illustrative only
A common misunderstanding
A title search doesn't guarantee a title is free of all issues — it's why title insurance exists to cover risks a search might miss.
Ask Vabasso AI
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