What Is a Title Search and Why Is It Important When Buying a Home in Virginia?
Buying a home is one of the most exciting investments you’ll ever make, but it also comes with important steps to protect your future. One of the most critical (yet often overlooked) parts of the home-buying process is the title search. Without it, buyers could face costly surprises down the road.
At our team, we prioritize protecting our clients, which is why we proudly partner with Strong Title, a local firm owned by Van Smith, to provide this essential service.
What Is a Title Search?
A title search is a deep dive into a property’s public records to confirm legal ownership and uncover any issues that could affect your ability to own it free and clear. During this process, the title company checks for:
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Liens – Unpaid debts tied to the property (mortgages, taxes, contractor bills).
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Easements & Restrictions – Rules that may limit how you use the property.
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Ownership Disputes – Conflicts involving past owners, heirs, or prior sales.
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Judgments – Legal claims that could create complications for new owners.
The ultimate goal is to deliver clear title, meaning no one else has a valid claim to your property once you close.
Why a Title Search Is So Important in Virginia
Virginia is a buyer-beware state, which means it’s the buyer’s responsibility to make sure the property is free of hidden problems. If a lien, unpaid tax, or ownership dispute exists and isn’t caught before closing, you could become legally responsible for resolving it.
Simply put: a title search helps you avoid costly headaches and ensures you’re truly buying what you think you are.
Why We Work With Strong Title
Not all title companies are created equal, which is why we trust Strong Title. Owned and operated by Van Smith, their team takes pride in doing the detailed, careful research that keeps our clients protected. They’re not just thorough, they’re also communicative, efficient, and dedicated to making the process as smooth as possible.
With Strong Title handling the research, our clients gain peace of mind knowing their investment is safeguarded from any hidden issues.
Protecting Your Investment
While a title search may not be the most glamorous step in buying a home, it’s one of the most important. Partnering with a trusted title company ensures your dream home comes without unexpected baggage.
👉 Want to learn more? Check out our quick video where we break down exactly what a title search is and why it matters for Virginia homebuyers.
If you’re buying or selling real estate in Virginia and want a team that will guide you through every step, including making sure your title is clear, reach out to us today. We’d love to help you start your real estate journey with confidence.
