Karr Law Offices Guides Clients Through Red Flags in Title Searches
Sometimes there are red flags in title searches. When purchasing real estate, a title search is one of the most important steps in protecting your investment. At Karr Law Office in Charleston, WV, we often help clients navigate title issues that could otherwise derail a closing or result in costly surprises later. Below are some common red flags to be aware of during a title search.
Boundary Disputes Can Cause Legal Headaches Later
One of the most common title search issues involves boundary disputes. These disputes occur when neighboring property owners disagree about where one property ends and another begins. Unclear or outdated property lines can lead to future legal action or limit your ability to develop or sell the property. A thorough title search—and often a survey—can uncover these problems before you sign on the dotted line.
Undisclosed Liens Could Jeopardize Ownership Rights
Another major red flag is the presence of undisclosed liens on the property. These could include unpaid property taxes, contractor liens, or even judgment liens from previous owners. If left unresolved, these financial obligations could transfer to the new owner. Karr Law Office works to identify and address these issues early to ensure a clean title.
Encumbrances Can Limit Property Use and Value
An encumbrance is any claim, restriction, or legal burden on a property that could affect its use or value. This can include easements, restrictive covenants, or rights-of-way. While not all encumbrances are problematic, some can severely limit your ability to make improvements or use the property as intended. Our attorney carefully reviews all encumbrances uncovered during a title search to help you make informed decisions.
Previous Ownership Disputes May Still Be Unresolved
Chain of title issues—such as missing heirs, forged documents, or contested ownership—can raise serious concerns. If prior transfers of ownership were not legally sound, your right to the property could be legally challenged later. Karr Law Office performs diligent checks to ensure every link in the ownership chain is valid and legally binding.
Clerical Errors Can Lead to Costly Delays
Even simple clerical mistakes in deeds, names, or property descriptions can cause problems. These seemingly minor errors can delay closing or create confusion over ownership. Our lawyer helps identify and correct these issues early in the process, saving you time and money. If you’re preparing for a property purchase, trust Karr Law Office in Charleston, WV, to provide reliable guidance during your title search. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your transaction goes smoothly.
For more information, call Karr Law Office at (304) 345-3202. We are happy to help you with red flags in title searches.
