What does a title search involve?

A title search involves a thorough examination of public records to verify the legal ownership of a property. This process is essential in real estate transactions as it ensures that the seller has the right to sell the property and that there are no outstanding claims or liens against it. By reviewing these records, a title search can uncover any issues related to ownership, such as previous ownership disputes, mortgages, or encumbrances that could affect the sale. Properly conducting a title search helps protect both the buyer and lender by ensuring clear title transfer and minimizing the risk of future legal disputes regarding property ownership.

The other options do not accurately represent the function of a title search. Identifying potential buyers relates to marketing strategies, calculating closing costs pertains to financial aspects of a transaction, and assessing the physical condition of a property is part of a property inspection process. These activities are separate from the title search process, which specifically focuses on verifying ownership and checking for any related legal issues.