Bulldog Title Insurance Agency, L.L.C.

What is title insurance?

Title insurance refers to a specific type of insurance designed to protect property buyers from claims arising from issues not resolved by the previous titleholder.

How much does title insurance cost?

Title insurance typically costs less than one percent of the house’s total value. The fee is paid only once.

Why is title insurance important?

Much is at stake in the purchase of a property. Title insurance can save you time, money, aggravation, and most importantly, protect you from the loss of your home if someone files a claim against you.

Are there different types of title insurance?

There are two general types of title insurance. The first one, lender’s title policy, protects the lender or mortgage company from title defects up to the amount of the loan. This type is usually required by mortgage companies. The second type, owner’s title policy, is an optional policy that protects a homeowner against claims.

What is a title search?

A title search is an evaluation of title records that aims to uncover any title defects or issues that may affect the property’s legal ownership or marketability.

What types of defects and issues do title searches reveal?

Title searches seek to uncover owed taxes, liens, claims on the property, easements, ordinances, bankruptcy proceedings, mortgages, CC&Rs (covenants, conditions and restrictions), and any other legal attachments that must be corrected before the title can be transferred.

What happens if a title search reveals an issue with the title?

The issue must be corrected before you can continue your transaction. Depending on the issue, your title insurance will either correct it, or if the claim is valid, pay the amount necessary to resolve it.

What is a HUD-1?

A HUD-1 is the closing form used in settlements. It includes an itemized list of all applicable closing costs and specifies the extent to which each party is responsible for those costs.

Why do I need title insurance if I’m going to have a title search performed?

There are some title issues that a title search cannot uncover no matter how thorough it is. Title insurance will protect your interests in cases where errors or other unforeseeable circumstances may lead to a legal claim.

The builder of my home already has title insurance. Why do I need to buy it again?

The builder’s title insurance policy protects only the builder. Title insurance will protect you from any legal claims, including those that may stem from events transpiring since the builder’s policy was issued.

How do I learn more about title insurance and title searches?

If you are in need of a title search, title insurance, or other title-related matter, please contact us today for a FREE consultation with an experienced attorney who can answer your questions and provide you with sound legal advice.