Title companies conduct a chain of title, which is a review of the owner history of the property, checking for who purchased the property, who sold it, and when. They perform judgment searches to determine whether there are any general liens against the property, as well as tax searches to verify the present status of taxes.

Some title companies conduct on-site inspections to verify lot size, the location of improvements, and evidence of unrecorded easements.

They issue a “Commitment of Title Insurance” to lenders after completion of the title search and they receive instructions and documents for the closing. Title companies also prepare a final Settlement Statement.

If it acts as the escrow holder, the title company receives a buyer’s earnest money, which is deposited in an escrow account until the closing, or final settlement.

As a neutral third party agent of the principals—buyer, seller, lender, and borrower—the title company helps with the transfer of ownership by ensuring that the terms of the transaction are completed. This includes safeguarding all funds (including the buyer’s deposit) and documents. Once all the details have been settled, the escrow holder disburses the funds and documents to the appropriate parties.

Another important role of the title company is to issue title insurance. Although a title search is conducted, it’s nearly impossible to guarantee a title is clear of hidden defects, such as mistakes in interpretation of wills and other legal documents, impersonation of the real owner, forgery, missing heirs, falsification of records and confusion stemming from similar names. Title insurance guarantees the title as reported.

Should hidden defects surface at any time challenging an owner’s rights, the title company will defend the title, in court, if necessary, and cover the owner’s losses up to the full value of the policy.

Indeed, a title company can be crucial to the process of buying a home, so select a company that’s known for service. If you need a recommendation, talk to your real estate professional.

Corey Williamson can be reached at (406) 544-9467. Prudential Missoula Properties is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Equal Housing Opportunity.