If you are in search of how to perform title search services before buying a property in Tennessee, it is always recommended to consider hiring a professional title search company as they are likely capable to catch the details that an average property buyer may miss. However, there are some ways to perform a title search and they are as follows:
- Start your search online
You can obtain county public documents online through the website of your state government. Counties frequently store copies of their public records online. Search for the property title you're interested in on the website of your state government after choosing your county.
- Find tax records
Tax records are detailed and effective look at the property information as it confirms that all the property taxes are up to date. The accurate assessment of the property’s value over time will be provided by tax histories and this will give you a better picture of the current market value of the property. You can examine the tax lien records kept by the tax assessor's office in your county to be sure there are no encumbrances on the property you plan to buy.
- Check for a clear chain of title
Obtain a clear detail on all the deeds of the property for the last 50-70 years and be sure to ensure that the name on the most recent deed matches with the current seller. In general, you're looking for a clear chain of title, which confirms the sequential ownership of a property and makes sure there aren't any additional legal claims or privileges against the property that could reduce its value. Several counties will have an up-to-date archive or property deeds at the county's recorder's office that can be found in a county courthouse or a standalone recorder's office. In some cities, property deeds reside within the city archives r at the official city hall. Hence, city and county clerks will help you find public information resources.
- Look up the abstract of a property title
An abstract of title is a clear and detailed history of the property that begins, typically, with the grant deed and includes information regarding easements, encroachments, inheritances, tax liens, foreclosures, and unpaid taxes. Usually, the abstractors will consult with the county's clerk's office and some other appropriate land title offices while preparing this document. This document will include the chronological structure sequence of deeds along with the further establishment of the chain of title. Right before entering negotiations for the purchase, ensure to obtain the most recent abstract of the tile.
- Document your title search findings
Together with a detailed legal description of the property, information on the property's tax history, the chain of title, and any other relevant details compile your findings into a written document.
- Consult a real estate attorney
Compiling the title search on your own will be a complex process whereas hiring a professional will help you get the best performed. Once you have documented all the necessary information, try consulting a real estate attorney about how to move further with the data that you have collected. They will guide and help you in dealing with all existing encumbrances over the property and also answer all questions about legal complicated documents.
- Go through a professional title search company
It is always good to move through a professional title company as they will work with numerous real estate agents to crosscheck and verify the legal ownership of the property. Their title investigation includes the details on current owner information along with titles from previous owners. Remember an experienced title company's title search records are probably more accurate than a self-assembled report.