Title Insurance Services
Washington, D.C. Area Title Insurance
Title insurance is an important part of every real estate transaction. And yet, many people are unfamiliar with what title insurance is and the benefits of having a clean title report.
Before you purchase your home, a title search will be done to determine whether you have a clear right to the property. This thorough review will include all the recorded documents and information concerning the title. And, when it is concluded, you can feel confident making your purchase because the property’s title has been found to be free and clear.
Unfortunately, regardless of how in-depth the title search is, there is always a chance that something could be missed.
Your home is likely your biggest investment, and District Title helps you protect your interest in that investment. Title insurance protects real estate owners and lenders against any property loss or damage they might experience because of liens, encumbrances or defects in the title to the property.
There are many different potential title defects that may arise, including the following:
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Forged or fraudulent deeds/documents
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Inheritance claims
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Liens
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Delinquent taxes
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Judgements
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Undiscovered wills
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Recording errors
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Spousal claims
Each title insurance policy is subject to specific terms, conditions and exclusions that can vary by state. While other types of insurance, auto insurance for example, provide coverage that focuses on possible future events, title insurance protects against loss from defects already existing in the title to a property.
Contact the team at District Title for all of your Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. title insurance needs.
Services
Insurance
Wholesale Transactions
Residential
Construction Loans
Commercial
Refinance
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a lender’s title insurance policy and an owner’s title insurance policy?
Both a lender’s policy and an owner’s policy protect against the same defects mentioned above, but it is the party’s interest they are protecting that differs. For instance, a lender’s title insurance policy is in place to protect the lender’s interest in the property and the owner’s policy protects the owner. In other words, if a title defect appears and you only have a lender’s title insurance policy, your interests as the homeowner will not be protected.
Is title insurance required?
It depends. If you are financing the property you are buying, then there is a good chance your lender will require you to purchase a lender’s title insurance policy. In fact, this is required by nearly every lender as it protects their interest.
As the homebuyer, you are not required to purchase an owner’s policy. Though, it is highly recommended. Remember, solely having a lender’s policy will not protect you.
What do I do if someone is claiming rights to my property after I have been living here?
If you do not have a title insurance policy, you may find yourself facing a long legal battle to try and keep your house -- and you may or may not win. However, if you have title insurance, you would simply follow the insurance company’s instructions for filing a claim and then let them handle it. It really is that simple.
How long does title insurance last?
A lender’s title insurance policy lasts for the length of the mortgage. The policy will be in the amount of the loan and its value will continue to drop as you pay on your mortgage every month. Once it has been satisfied, the lender’s title insurance policy will close out.
An owner’s title insurance policy lasts for as long as you have an interest in the property. Even if your heirs end up with your home after you have passed away, they will be protected by the title insurance policy you took out when purchasing the property.
How often do I have to pay for title insurance?
One time! Many people are under the impression that title insurance is just another insurance premium that you pay monthly or annually. However, it is only paid once at closing and that’s it.
How can I learn more about title insurance?
If you would like to learn more about title insurance and how it can benefit you, then your team at District Title is here for you. Give us a call at (202) 518-9300.
