Before paying a reservation fee or down payment on land, a house, or a condominium unit, the first step should be to verify the title. It is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of fraud or future disputes.
What title verification involves
Title verification generally means obtaining a certified true copy of the title from the Registry of Deeds where the property is located and comparing it with the copy the seller provided.
Things to check include:
- Registered owner — Does the name match the seller? If not, why?
- Technical description — Does it match the actual property?
- Annotations — Are there mortgages, liens, adverse claims, or notices of pending cases (lis pendens)?
Other documents to request
- Latest tax declaration and real property tax receipts
- A tax clearance from the local government
- For condominiums, a certification from the condominium corporation regarding unpaid dues
- If the seller is married, the spouse's consent where required
Visit the property
Documents tell only part of the story. Visiting the property can reveal occupants, boundary issues, or other concerns that are not apparent on paper.
Get help early
Reviewing documents before you commit is usually far simpler and less costly than resolving a problem after payment has been made.
This article is general information only and is not legal advice. For assistance with a property purchase, request a consultation.