Not all title defects are equal. Some are minor, and others unfortunately will completely block a sale.
Common Deal-Stopping Title Defects
- Probate never completed
- Missing heirs
- Incorrect legal descriptions
- Unreleased mortgages
- Old liens or judgments
- Breaks in the chain of title
Any one of these can prevent a title company from issuing insurance, and therefore stop a buyer from completing a purchase.
Why Title Companies Are Strict
Title companies assume financial risk when insuring a transaction. If ownership isn’t crystal clear, they won’t proceed.
That’s why even “small” errors can stop a closing.
What This Means for Sellers
If your land has a serious title defect:
- Listing it won’t fix the problem
- Buyers may walk away late
- Time and money can be wasted
Understanding the defect early saves frustration.