The term "title insurance" is a combination of two words: title and insurance. To understand it better, first we understand what is meant by "title". The term "title" is used to refer for a person who has got a legal right to use, own or sell a property. The title contains all mortgage brass tacks related to previous ownerships, transfers, mortgages, easements, etc.
Why it is important?
A problem in the title could result in a fail transaction - your ownership could be questioned. A problem in the title can arise due to various reasons, such as, lien, unpaid taxes, earlier forged transactions, etc.
It is vital to have the insurance policy so that the owner would remain safe from any kind of the title related problems. Thus, every mortgage lender requires a title insurance policy to avoid any future disputes on the title of a property.
How it works?
It provides a protection against financial losses in the title of a property. It will fight for the insurance holder in case of any lawsuit, and would reimburse him/her in case of financial losses.
Before issuing the insurance policy, every company does in-depth research to detect, prevent and eliminate any sort of a problem in the title of a property.
Insurance Premiums
It is important to understand that title insurance for a lender is different from the insurance of a buyer. Generally, the buyer is responsible for the one-time premiums of both the policies, but in some states, the seller is responsible for the one-time premiums of both the policies. It is suggested that buyers must discuss this insurance with their real estate agents.
Further, it requires only one-time premium and covers the tile as long as the policy holder owns the property.
How it is Different from Other Types of Insurances?
Title insurance is different from other general forms of insurances as it covers the losses that arises due to the events occurred prior (indefinite period) to the date of the issuance of the policy. On the contrary, in a life insurance or property insurance, the upcoming losses from the date of the issuance of the policy are covered for a definite period.
Title insurance is mandatory for every lending organization. It is a highly recommended insurance for every buyer. Although, it looks as an upfront expense, but in case of any dispute in the title of a property, it works as a savior.
Syed Rehan is associated with AgentCampus that offers Real Estate License & Real Estate CE.
