Addressing a Cloud on Title
If you know anything about real estate, you know that there is a lot more to buying and selling property than simply handing over the keys. There are multiple steps that must be taken and quite a bit of paperwork that must be filled out before ownership can be transferred from one party to another. Typically these steps can be taken without too much trouble, but every once in a while, issues may arise that inhibit the sale of a property. A "cloud" is an example of one such issue. What Is "Cloud On Title"? Often considered synonymous with "title defect," the term "cloud on title" refers to any issue with a title that may cause a reasonable buyer to hesitate before purchasing the property. Examples of common clouds include (but are not limited to): Unpaid property taxes An unsatisfied mortgage lien A pending lawsuit over ownership of the property An improperly recorded deed An improperly recorded easement Improperly recorded ownership...