A Title Search (also known as an Abstract or Abstract of Title) is performed when property is being transferred to new ownership, either through sale or inheritance. It is designed to report on and investigate the history of the property by accessing relevant records for any variances or irregularities associated with the property, which might inhibit its purchase or transfer. Title Searches are considered public record, and involve researching deed records of a property, as well as confirming the property’s legal ownership. Title Searches are generally performed by searching the property address, but you can also search by owner name, with the results listing all properties owned by that individual.
Title Searches are an important part of the processes that real estate laws require when transferring ownership of property. Mortgage companies also require Title Searches in order to approve a loan. Title Search results will expose any easements, judgments, liens, mortgages, taxes or outstanding claims associated with the property; this may also include soil and water surveys.
All properties that are registered in the electronic database are available for electronic searching. Most major cities are available for electronic searches, which is the most efficient method for obtaining a Title Search. On occasions where the property is not available for electronic searching, a manual search is processed, where an agent visits the local Land Registry office. Although this process is more costly and time consuming, it is the only way to perform a Title Search for unlisted properties.
Please note: Title Search Services are currently available for properties located in the province of Ontario. Manual searches for properties not listed in the electronic database are currently unavailable.
