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Property Title Search

Discover what a property title search is in Canadian real estate — how it protects buyers and ensures legal, lien-free ownership.

Property Title Search

June 27, 2025


What is Property Title Search?

A property title search is a legal review of public records to verify ownership, liens, easements, and other encumbrances on a property.

Why Property Title Searches Matter in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, a title search ensures that the seller has clear title and reveals any legal issues that could affect the transaction.



A title search typically checks for:
  • Ownership records and chain of title
  • Registered mortgages and liens
  • Easements and rights-of-way
  • Legal description and boundaries



Title searches are usually conducted by a lawyer or notary during the closing process.



Understanding title searches protects buyers from hidden claims and supports secure, legal property transfers.

Example of a Property Title Search in Action

The lawyer performed a property title search that uncovered an unpaid lien, which was resolved before closing.

Key Takeaways

  • Confirms ownership and legal status of property
  • Reveals liens, easements, and restrictions
  • Essential for secure property transfer
  • Performed during due diligence
  • Supports clean title and insurability

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Public Realm Improvements

Public realm improvements are enhancements to public spaces such as sidewalks, parks, plazas, and streetscapes, often funded or contributed by. more

Mortgagee in Possession

A mortgagee in possession is a lender who takes control of a property after borrower default, but before foreclosure or power of sale. The lender. more

Lease Surrender Agreement

A lease surrender agreement is a negotiated contract between a landlord and tenant that ends a lease before its scheduled expiration. Terms may. more

Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure refers to natural or engineered systems that manage stormwater, reduce heat, and improve sustainability in developments.. more

Escrow Holdback

An escrow holdback is a portion of funds withheld at closing and held in escrow until specific conditions are met, such as completion of repairs,. more

Underused Housing Tax

The Underused Housing Tax (UHT) is a federal annual 1% tax on the value of vacant or underused residential property owned by non-resident,. more

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