What does "title search" refer to in real estate transactions?

In real estate transactions, a "title search" refers to an examination of public records to determine legal ownership of a property. This process involves reviewing documents such as deeds, mortgages, liens, and other relevant filings to verify that the seller has the right to transfer ownership and that the title is free of encumbrances that could affect the new owner's rights.

Conducting a title search is crucial as it helps to identify any potential issues with the title that may need to be resolved before the property can be sold, such as unpaid property taxes, outstanding judgments, or claims from previous owners. This ensures that the buyer receives a clear and marketable title, which is fundamental for securing financing and avoiding future legal disputes over ownership.

The other options, such as reviewing the property’s neighborhood, assessing property value, or evaluating the building's structural integrity, do not pertain specifically to the title search process and focus on different aspects of real estate analysis.