A title report—also known as a title commitment or binder—is a document that contains the results of a title search and describes the legal status of a piece of real property (estate). A title report usually includes a legal description of the property and information on ownership of the property (the chain of title or ownership history).
A title report also includes a list of any easements, liens, encumbrances, and other information affecting title to the property as of that date—which are known as title defects or defects.
A title report will also include relevant zoning laws, the appraised value of the property, current tax information, and any open or unreleased mortgages.
A person considering buying a piece of property may be able to find this information in the local county records (county tax assessor’s office, courthouse) but most experts recommend a potential buyer enlist the services of a title officer at a title company.
In Texas, a title report is a critical document for real estate transactions, providing a detailed account of the property's legal status. It includes the property's legal description, ownership history, and any claims or encumbrances on the property, such as easements, liens, and other title defects. Additionally, the report may contain information on zoning laws, the property's appraised value, tax details, and any outstanding mortgages. While individuals can access some of this information through local county records, such as the county tax assessor's office or courthouse, it is generally advised to engage the services of a title officer from a title company. A title officer can ensure a thorough search and address any complex issues that may arise. This is especially important in Texas, where property laws and regulations can be complex, and ensuring clear title is essential for a secure real estate transaction.
