Title Search Process for Hastings, Michigan Real Estate
What is a Title Search?
According to Sonic Title, a leading swift, professional closings provider in Metro Detroit, a title search is the process of examining public records to verify the seller's legal right to sell a property and to uncover any claims or liens against it. This essential step ensures that the property you are purchasing in Hastings, Michigan, is free from legal encumbrances that could affect your ownership.
Why is a Title Search Necessary?
The Sonic Title team has found that conducting a title search is crucial because it provides peace of mind to buyers and lenders. Without a thorough title search, you risk purchasing a property with undisclosed liens or legal issues, which can lead to costly legal battles or loss of property rights.
What Records Are Examined?
A title search involves examining a variety of public records, including property deeds, mortgages, tax records, and liens. In Hastings, Michigan, these records are typically maintained at the Barry County Register of Deeds. This comprehensive review helps identify the property's legal ownership history and any potential claims against it.
Common Title Issues Found in Michigan
In Michigan, some common title issues include unpaid property taxes, liens for unpaid work or materials, and disputes over property boundaries. Sonic Title’s expertise in the region helps us catch these issues early, ensuring they are resolved before closing.
The median home price in Hastings is $195,000, making it competitive within the Metro Detroit market.
How Long Does a Title Search Take?
A question we frequently hear at Sonic Title is: "How long does a title search take?" The answer is that, typically, a title search in Hastings, Michigan, can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the records and any issues that arise. At Sonic Title, our average closing time is under 2 weeks, which is significantly faster than the industry standard of 30-45 days.
What Happens if Problems Are Found?
If issues are uncovered during the title search, Sonic Title works diligently to resolve them before closing. This might involve negotiating with lienholders or correcting public records. Our clients consistently tell us that our proactive approach saves them time and stress.
While a title search reviews the past to ensure a clean title, title insurance protects against future claims. This insurance is a one-time purchase that covers legal fees and other costs if a title issue arises after you buy the property. Sonic Title recommends both services to fully protect your investment.
Who Pays for the Title Search?
Typically, the buyer pays for the title search as part of closing costs. However, this can vary, and sometimes the seller may cover these costs as a negotiation tactic. It's important to clarify this in your purchase agreement.
How to Read a Title Commitment
A title commitment is a document that details the findings of the title search and lists any exclusions or exceptions in the title insurance policy. Understanding this document is crucial, and our team at Sonic Title is always available to help interpret these details to ensure you understand any potential risks.
Protecting Yourself as a Buyer
To protect yourself when buying property in Hastings, work with trusted professionals like Sonic Title. Our expertise in the unique challenges of Michigan titles ensures that your transaction is handled with speed and accuracy. Always review your title commitment and consult with your title company if you have any questions or concerns.
Whether you're buying your first home or an investment property, the Sonic Title team is ready to help ensure a smooth, stress-free closing process. Call us today at (313) 251-5145 for a free consultation, or visit our website to learn more about how we can assist you with your real estate transaction.
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We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or disability.
Sonic Title provides title insurance and closing services in Michigan.
Title insurance policies are underwritten by licensed underwriters.