Questions we hear often

An abstract is a certified compilation of the facts of record in the County Clerk and Court Clerk offices that affect title to a specific tract of land. It starts with the original patent from the United States and lists owners, liens and mortgages, court litigation, probate proceedings and tax sales.

An abstract states that all relevant public records are included. An opinion of title is a professional judgment about how title is vested and the status of the chain of title. In many jurisdictions giving an opinion is the practice of law, so we prepare abstracts and do not give opinions.

A written order with a complete legal description of the property, a commitment to pay, and any base abstracts needed for the work. You can use the online order form or call us.

Platted land lies within a recorded plat, such as a town lot in a subdivision. Unplatted land does not, such as rural acreage described by section, township and range. Our certification rates differ slightly between the two.

A mineral search shows mineral ownership and interests. It is usually ordered before leasing oil, gas or minerals, or when ownership is disputed. It does not show prior or current surface owners.

A title report is provided on request for the issuance of title insurance, after preliminary abstracting is complete and the transaction has closed. The order must specify beginning and ending dates, and the report does not guarantee title outside them.

A gap check is a last search for liens or judgments filed against either party after the preliminary abstract and before funding. Lenders and mortgage brokers receive verbal or written gap checks before closing.

Payment is made on delivery, directly to the abstractor, by the person who placed the order. Abstracts over $500.00 require payment in advance, before the abstract is delivered.