Five title checks to do before you sign

A clean title is the single most important thing you'll inherit when you buy property. Here are the five checks every buyer should insist on before signing anything.

1. Get a certified true copy from the Registry of Deeds

Don't accept a photocopy from the seller. Pay the small fee for a certified true copy from the Registry of Deeds in the property's locale. The CTC is dated and stamped — it tells you what was true on the date of issue, which should be within the last 30 days.

2. Match the title number to the location

A real but mismatched title is a classic scam. Cross-check the technical description against the actual physical lot. If the title says "Lot 4, Block 12" and the property you're walking is "Lot 5, Block 12", you have a problem.

3. Look for annotations and encumbrances

The back of the title is where the action is. Mortgages, court orders, adverse claims, and lis pendens all show up as annotations. A title with no annotations and a recent CTC is the gold standard.

4. Verify tax declaration alignment

The tax declaration should match the title in name, area, and location. Mismatches mean either the records weren't updated (workable) or you're looking at two different properties (deal-breaker).

5. Confirm Real Property Tax (RPT) is current

Outstanding RPT becomes the buyer's problem after transfer. Get the RPT clearance from the Treasurer's office. Any unpaid balance should either be settled by the seller before closing or deducted from the purchase price.

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We do all five for every client. If you're working with a broker who isn't, get a second opinion.