What is "Chain of Title"?

Title insurance is a special kind of insurance that protects property owners' right to use and occupy their land. For some homes and/or properties, the title (the document that proves ownership) can be limited by rights and claims asserted by other individuals. If someone else brings a claim against your property, your ability to use and enjoy the land may be reduced and/or you may suffer great financial loss.

That's where title insurance comes in.


Title insurance is your first line of defense against these potential hazards. Property is often the biggest investment most people make in their lifetimes, and it is crucial to protect this investment with title insurance.

Title Insurance Focuses on Risk Prevention

Whereas other forms of insurance guard against risks by assisting you after an incident occurs, title insurance manages your risks by focusing on preventing risks before they occur. In order to do this, title insurance companies rely heavily on something that is known as "chain of title."

What is "Chain of Title"?

Chain of title is exactly what it sounds like - the chain linking all of the individuals who have ever held title to a specific piece of property, in sequential order. By looking at the complete history of the title to a piece of property, title companies at the Lake of the Ozarks can identify any potential liens, unpaid mortgages, and other hazards that might limit the buyers' use and enjoyment of the property.


Chain of Title is Different than Abstract of Title

Sometimes people confuse the chain of title and the abstract of title. While these two documents are similar, they serve slightly different purposes. The chain of title provides an in-depth description of every owner of a specific piece of property, whereas the abstract of title simply provides a basic summary. 

The title professionals at Arrowhead Title, Inc. typically use the information provided in the abstract of title when preparing title insurance. If we have any questions or stumble across something in need of further explanation, we turn to the chain of title to get all the little details.

Arrowhead Title, Inc. is Here to Help!

If you have questions about or if your are in need of title insurance at the Lake of the Ozarks, Arrowhead Title, Inc. is the company that can help. We strive ourselves on delivering courteous, detailed, and accurate information to all of our clients, and we look forward to assisting you with your next real estate transaction!

The Lake of the Ozarks' Most Trusted Title Company

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