When selling a home in Sarasota, FL, one of the most important things to ensure is a clear and marketable title. A title shows who legally owns the property and guarantees that the ownership can be transferred without problems. However, many sellers and buyers face common title issues that can delay or even stop a home sale. Understanding these issues can help you avoid surprises and keep your transaction on track.

Common Title Issues That Can Delay or Derail a Home Sale in Sarasota, FL

1. Unresolved Liens and Judgments

Liens are legal claims against a property for unpaid debts. These can include unpaid property taxes (tax liens), contractor bills (mechanic’s liens), or court judgments. If these liens are not cleared before the sale, they can block the transfer of ownership. Buyers and lenders usually require that all liens be resolved so the property can be sold free and clear.

2. Errors in Public Records

Clerical mistakes in public records are surprisingly common. These errors might be misspelled names, incorrect legal descriptions of the property, missing signatures, or incomplete documents. Such mistakes can create confusion about who owns the property or what exactly is being sold. Even a small error can cause delays as the records need to be corrected before closing.

3. Missing or Undisclosed Heirs

When a property has been inherited, sometimes heirs who have a legal claim might be missing from the paperwork or unknown at the time of sale. If a previously unknown heir appears, they can claim ownership, which complicates or stops the sale. Resolving heirship claims often requires legal action to confirm rightful ownership.

4. Boundary Disputes

Disagreements with neighbors about property lines can cause serious title problems. For example, if a fence or structure crosses onto a neighbor’s land, the dispute must be settled before the sale can proceed. Boundary issues often require surveys and sometimes legal agreements to fix.

5. Unreleased or Unsatisfied Mortgages

Sometimes, previous owners had mortgages or loans secured by the property that were never fully paid off or released. These outstanding mortgages show up as clouds on the title and must be satisfied before the property can be sold. This issue can be tricky if the seller is unaware of these old debts.

6. Illegal or Defective Deeds

Deeds that were not properly executed or recorded, or that were made under fraudulent circumstances, can cause title defects. For example, a deed signed without proper witnesses or by someone without authority can be invalid. These defects must be fixed to ensure clear ownership.

7. Outstanding Homeowners Association (HOA) Dues

If a property is part of an HOA, any unpaid dues or fines can become liens against the property. These must be paid off before the sale, or the HOA can block the transaction.

How to Handle Title Issues

Title problems often come up during the title search phase of a sale. The good news is that many title issues can be fixed, but it usually requires professional help. Some solutions include:

• Correcting public records by filing updated documents.

• Paying off liens or mortgages to clear claims.

• Filing a quiet title action, a legal process to settle disputes and confirm ownership.

• Working with title insurance companies that can sometimes cover certain defects.

Because title issues can be complex and time-consuming, having an experienced title company or real estate attorney is essential to getting your sale back on track.

Why Choose Titan Title 

If you’re selling or buying a home in Sarasota, Titan Title is here to help you navigate these common title challenges smoothly. With their deep knowledge of Florida real estate and commitment to clear communication, Titan Title works hard to resolve title issues quickly and efficiently. They understand that every real estate transaction is important and strive to provide personalized service to protect your interests.

Whether you’re facing liens, errors in records, heirship questions, or any other title concerns, Titan Title’s team is ready to assist you every step of the way.

Contact Titan Title

• Phone: 727-610-2861

• Email: info@titantitlefl.com

• Website: titantitlefl.com

Reach out to Titan Title today to ensure your home sale in Sarasota goes smoothly without unexpected delays. Their experienced professionals will guide you through the process and help clear any title issues so you can close with confidence.

Selling a home can be stressful, but title problems don’t have to be. Knowing the common title issues in Sarasota and having a trusted partner like Titan Title can make all the difference in a successful, timely home sale. Don’t let title troubles derail your plans. Contact Titan Title and move forward with peace of mind.

Source: titantitlefl.com
Header Image Source: Daniel Barnes on Unsplash