When listing a property, most agents focus on curb appeal, marketing strategies, and pricing. But there’s one crucial step that often gets overlooked: running a title search before the property hits the market.

This proactive approach can make a world of difference for both the agent and the seller. Here’s why it’s a smart move that can save time, money, and stress down the line.

1️⃣ Uncover Title Issues Early

When you secure a new listing, you’re trusting that the seller owns the property free and clear of any issues. But that’s not always the case.

Common Title Issues You Might Find:

• Liens: Unpaid taxes, contractor liens, or debts attached to the property.
• Ownership Disputes: Errors in past deeds or unresolved inheritance claims.
• Easements or Restrictions: Legal rights that allow others to use or restrict the property.

Why It Matters:
Discovering these issues early allows the seller and their team to resolve them before a buyer is involved. If these issues arise at closing, it can delay or even cancel the deal.

2️⃣ Prevent Delays and Cancellations

Picture this: The buyer has already scheduled their move, the closing date is set, and suddenly, a lien from three owners ago pops up. The deal is now on hold — or worse, it falls apart.

How Early Title Searches Help:

• Address title defects before they become deal-breakers.
• Avoid last-minute surprises that could delay the closing.
• Keep your closing timeline on track, impressing both buyers and sellers.

3️⃣ Position Yourself as a Knowledgeable and Trustworthy Agent

Sellers want to work with agents who have a plan, and running a title search shows you’re one step ahead. This move showcases your industry expertise and commitment to a smooth transaction.

Benefits of Being Proactive:

• Sellers see you as a knowledgeable professional.
• Buyers’ agents will appreciate that the title is clean and ready.
• You gain a competitive edge over other agents who skip this step.

4️⃣ Strengthen Your Negotiating Power

When a title search is complete, you know exactly what you’re selling. This means you can confidently market the property without fear of surprises. Buyers will see this as a sign of professionalism and security.

Here’s How It Helps Negotiations:

• You can assure buyers that the property is “clear to close.”
• Buyers are less likely to request contingencies for title issues.
• You maintain control of the sale timeline, creating a better experience for all parties.

5️⃣ Avoid Legal Issues and Protect Your Reputation

Failing to uncover title issues can lead to legal headaches. If a buyer’s purchase falls through because of an unresolved lien, they may look for someone to blame — and sometimes, that’s the listing agent.

How Early Title Searches Protect You:

• Ensure you’ve done your due diligence as a real estate professional.
• Reduce the risk of lawsuits or complaints from frustrated buyers or sellers.
• Protect your reputation and earn referrals from happy clients.

6️⃣ Get a Head Start on Closing Prep

Closing a real estate transaction takes teamwork between agents, lenders, attorneys, and title companies. By running a title search early, you give everyone on the team a head start.

How It Helps Closing Day:

• Title issues are resolved before the buyer even makes an offer.
• The title company can prepare documents well in advance.
• Closing happens faster, impressing your clients and earning you referrals.

How to Run a Title Search as a Listing Agent

You don’t have to do it yourself! Partner with a trusted title company, like Nexus Abstract Title Company, to handle it for you. Here’s how it works:

1. Request a Preliminary Title Search from the title company.
2. Review the Title Report to identify any liens, claims, or restrictions.
3. Work with the Seller to resolve any issues before the property is listed.

This simple step can turn a complicated transaction into a smooth one.

Final Thoughts

Running a title search before listing a property is a small step with big rewards. It protects your seller, builds trust with buyers, and positions you as a proactive real estate professional.

Need help running a title search? Let Nexus Abstract Title Agency handle it for you. We’ll give you a comprehensive title report so you can list with confidence and close with ease.

📞 Contact us today to get started!

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