Paul Todd

A title search reviews public records to confirm legal ownership and uncover liens, claims, judgments, loans, or unpaid property taxes before a sale or loan.
Buyers, lenders, or other requesting parties typically hire a title company or attorney, because courthouse records and legal documents can be difficult to access.
After the search, buyers receive a preliminary title report, raise any issues with the seller, and decide whether to proceed before closing.
A clean title confirms clear ownership, while a dirty title can involve unknown liens, survey errors, building code violations, or record-keeping mistakes.
Title insurance adds protection if missed documents, forgery, fraud, unrecorded easements, lawsuits, or other past title defects create financial loss after purchase.

What Is a Title Search?

At 83, coverage is still available, but choices narrow. Most insurers offer either short-term life insurance or guaranteed issue policies for older applicants.
Short-term coverage usually lasts 5-10 yr, costs less than permanent plans, and can lock in protection before age 90, though medical exams are common.
Guaranteed issue coverage skips health questions and may suit serious conditions, but death benefits often cap at $50K-$100K, limiting larger coverage needs.
Age, health, and lifestyle drive pricing. Smokers may pay ~2-3x more than non-smokers, and chronic conditions can sharply raise short-term premiums overall.
Apply honestly, keep recent medical records ready, and weigh whether coverage is essential; some retirees may compare annuities, small whole-life policies, savings, or spousal coverage.