What process examines the history of a property's title?

The title search is the process that examines the history of a property's title, and it involves a thorough investigation and verification of public records related to the property. This process typically includes looking into past ownership, any liens or encumbrances, and any legal claims that may affect the title's validity. The goal of a title search is to ensure that the title is clear and that the current owner has the legal right to transfer ownership without any unresolved issues.

Conducting a title search is an essential step in real estate transactions because it helps prevent future disputes over ownership and ensures that the buyer receives a title free of defects. This process is often conducted by title companies or real estate professionals to ensure comprehensive coverage and accuracy.

In contrast, other options like a title summary or title opinion may provide insights or findings related to the title but do not encompass the full investigative process involved in examining a property's title history. An ownership review might assess who holds the title at a given time but does not delve into the historical aspects significantly as a title search does.