Real estate is typically a person's largest investment and most valuable asset. Without title insurance, your home ownership could be at issue. Title insurance is insurance against loss or damage to you as the homeowner resulting from title defects that may include claims of ownership by others, undisclosed heirs, misfiled liens, real estate tax issues, fraudulently signed documents and mortgage releases, filing errors, etc. which are all outside of the scope of the reviewing attorney’s professional liability insurance coverage.There are two types of title insurance policies:
Owner’s Policy
As a buyer, it is vital that you protect your investment and the ownership rights that come with it. An owner’s policy of title insurance will protect your rights as the homeowner for as long as you or your heirs have an interest in the property. The owner’s policy is an optional policy; however, it is strongly recommended that you do not waive this important protection.
Lender’s Policy
If you are working with a lender to purchase a home or commercial property or refinance an existing mortgage, purchasing title insurance is typically a lender requirement. This policy protects the bank or other lending institutions for as long as they maintain an interest in the property. When purchased simultaneously with an owner’s policy, the lender’s premium is reduced to a simultaneous issue fee, depending on the type of policy.