Purchasing a property is one of the most significant investments most people make in their lifetime. Whether it’s your dream home, a commercial space, or a piece of land, protecting that investment is essential. One of the most overlooked yet vital aspects of real estate transactions is ensuring a clean title. This is where title insurance in West Fargo becomes indispensable.
Title insurance protects buyers and lenders from potential issues related to property ownership. These problems may not always be visible during a standard title search, yet they can cause significant financial and legal trouble down the road. Below are ten common title problems that title insurance can help resolve.
1. Errors in Public Records
Even the smallest clerical error in a deed or property record can cause major complications. Filing mistakes, incorrect property descriptions, or misfiled documents can lead to disputes over ownership or land boundaries.
Title insurance ensures that any past errors do not become your responsibility, covering the legal costs to fix the issue and protecting your ownership rights.
2. Unknown Liens
A previous owner may have had outstanding debts—such as unpaid taxes, contractor bills, or HOA fees—that resulted in liens on the property. These liens might not surface during a standard title search and can suddenly become your burden after the purchase.
Title insurance in West Fargo can protect you from financial responsibility in such cases, ensuring you are not paying for someone else’s obligations.
3. Illegal Deeds
If a previous deed in the property’s chain of ownership was executed by someone not legally permitted to sign—such as a minor, someone of unsound mind, or using a forged identity—it could jeopardize your claim to the property.
Title insurance provides protection by covering the costs associated with rectifying these issues and defending your ownership in court if needed.
4. Missing Heirs or Disputed Ownership
Ownership disputes can arise when heirs of a previous owner come forward after the property has changed hands. Sometimes, a will may have been unknown, or an heir was presumed dead but later resurfaces.
With title insurance, you’re covered for any legal battles and claims that may emerge after your purchase, ensuring your right to own the property remains intact.
5. Forgery and Fraud
Forged signatures and fraudulent documents are more common than one might think, especially in older title chains. A dishonest party may have impersonated someone else or fabricated ownership documents.
Should this fraud affect your ownership rights, title insurance covers the legal costs and losses, helping you secure your rightful ownership without having to fight it alone.
6. Undiscovered Encumbrances
Sometimes, third parties such as contractors, tenants, or easement holders have legal rights to a property that can limit your use or enjoyment of it. These rights often don’t show up during a basic title check.
Title insurance helps reveal and resolve these hidden encumbrances so you can proceed with confidence and security in your ownership.
7. Boundary or Survey Disputes
Neighbors may challenge your property lines, especially if older surveys conflict with current ones. A miscalculation of just a few feet can lead to long-standing disputes or lawsuits.
With title insurance, you have protection against legal claims and potential losses if a boundary issue threatens your property rights.
8. Unknown Easements
An easement allows someone else legal access to part of your property—such as utility companies or neighboring landowners. If undiscovered, easements can affect your ability to build or even enjoy your land fully.
A comprehensive title insurance policy helps identify and mitigate the risks associated with unknown easements.
9. Unreleased Mortgages
Sometimes, a previous mortgage isn’t properly released even after it’s paid off. This can lead to claims that the mortgage is still valid and enforceable, causing delays or legal troubles in your property ownership.
Title insurance will step in to resolve the issue so that old obligations don’t become your problem.
10. Clerical Errors in Historical Deeds
Over the decades, property documents can become riddled with inaccuracies. Wrong spellings of names, incorrect legal descriptions, or missing signatures can cast doubt on your legal right to the property.
Rather than paying out of pocket to correct these problems, your title insurance policy will absorb those costs and handle the necessary legal steps.
Why Secure Title is Your Trusted Partner
At Secure Title, we understand the complexities of real estate transactions in North Dakota and specifically the importance of title insurance in West Fargo. Our experienced professionals conduct meticulous title searches, uncover potential issues, and guide you through the entire process with clarity and confidence.
When you work with Secure Title, you benefit from:
- Detailed and accurate title searches
- Protection against future title claims
- Fast and responsive customer support
- Years of experience in West Fargo real estate
- Tailored solutions for both residential and commercial properties
We are committed to ensuring your transaction is not only smooth but also protected for the long term.
When Should You Get Title Insurance?
Title insurance should be purchased during the closing of a property transaction. In most cases, lenders will require it as part of the mortgage process. However, it’s equally important for buyers to obtain an owner’s policy to safeguard their own interest.
Don’t wait until a problem arises. By then, it may be too late. Title insurance offers one-time protection that lasts as long as you or your heirs own the property.
How Much Does Title Insurance Cost?
The cost of title insurance varies depending on the property value and local fees. However, it is a one-time premium paid at closing, and it provides coverage for as long as you own your home. Compared to the potential legal expenses and property loss from a title dispute, the cost is a smart investment.
Contact Us
Ready to secure your property with reliable title insurance? Let our team at Secure Title help protect your investment from hidden risks and future disputes.
Contact us today:
📧 Email: info@securetitlecompany.com
📞 Phone: (701) 660-5887
Your peace of mind is our top priority. Whether you’re buying your first home or investing in commercial real estate, Secure Title is here to make sure your title is clear and your future is protected.
Secure Title – Protecting your future, one title at a time.