What is the purpose of a title search?

A title search serves the essential function of examining public records related to a specific property to determine its ownership history and identify any liens, claims, or encumbrances that might affect the property's title. This process is crucial for potential buyers, lenders, and investors, ensuring they have a clear understanding of any legal issues attached to the property before proceeding with a transaction.

Conducting a title search helps reveal whether the seller has the legal right to convey the property and highlights any existing mortgages or judgments that could impact the ownership or future use of the property. By identifying these risks, individuals can make informed decisions about purchasing a property and can take appropriate steps to resolve any title issues that may arise.

The other options relate to different aspects of real estate transactions but do not directly pertain to the fundamental purpose of a title search, which is specifically focused on clarifying ownership and potential legal complications associated with the title.