Title search & exam
A clean title, confirmed before you close
We research the public record to surface and resolve any issue before it reaches the closing table.
Quick answer
A title search examines public records — deeds, mortgages, liens, judgments, and more — to confirm the seller can legally transfer clear ownership. Title Base performs the search and examination, then clears any issues so your closing can proceed and your policy can be issued.
Before any policy is written or any closing is scheduled, we trace the chain of ownership and look for anything that could cloud the title: unpaid mortgages, tax or contractor liens, judgments, easements, boundary problems, or errors in prior deeds. Catching these early is what makes a closing smooth instead of stressful.
| What we search | Deeds, mortgages, liens, judgments, easements |
|---|---|
| Why it matters | Confirms clear, insurable ownership |
| When | Before the closing and policy issuance |
| Outcome | A title commitment listing requirements to clear |
| Service area | All 67 Florida counties |
What a search can uncover
- Liens & judgments — unpaid taxes, contractor liens, court judgments.
- Ownership gaps — unknown heirs, prior deed errors, forgeries.
- Encumbrances — easements, restrictions, or boundary issues.
From search to commitment
The search produces a title commitment — the document that lists what must be cleared (paid off, corrected, or released) before we can issue the policy. We handle those requirements and keep your agent and lender informed every step of the way.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a title search and title insurance?
The search investigates the public record to find issues; title insurance protects you financially against covered issues that the search couldn't reveal. You need both for a safe purchase.
What happens if the search finds a problem?
We work to clear it — for example, paying off a lien at closing or correcting a prior deed error — before the transaction proceeds. Most issues are resolvable.
How long does a title search take?
It varies by county and property, but it's typically completed within a few business days of opening the file.
Ready when you are
Let's get you to a successful closing.
Call, email, or start your file online — we'll confirm your Hometown Heroes eligibility and take it from there.