As a full service title company, Choice Title's in-house abstracting department can offer additional services to you and your clients. Whether it’s a residential title search or mineral research, our experience in Southern Louisiana can give you the expertise you desire.
Title searches are usually requested when real estate is being transferred from one party to another. A title search is a complete search of all public recorded acts that determine the legal condition of a particular property. These acts include sales, mortgages, liens, judgments, contracts or other encumbrances. An abstractor will also search tax records, assessments and other areas that may affect the marketability of real estate. The reason for a complete title search and examination is to research the “chain” of title to insure the seller wanting to transfer title can convey that title and that there is a marketable title to the property. In short, if the owner of a property can convey the title to a buyer, a buyer can use the good title as security to a lender.
Title searches can also be done when a property owner wishes to secure a second mortgage or refinance an existing mortgage. A title search will then determine that there are no liens or judgments that will not allow the property to be used to secure a loan.
Title searches are also necessary for oil and gas leases. Mineral rights are governed by their own rules, the Louisiana Mineral Code (Title 31 of the Revised Statutes). Although mineral titles are now being examined for “surface title transfers”, it is more common that they be examined for planned operations or to pay royalties to property owners. Our knowledge, experience and existing database in the lower Parishes of Louisiana insures short turnaround time for examinations and accurate legal descriptions if necessary.
We are a fully licensed title company, and title insurance agent. We represent three national title insurance companies, as well as having dedicated departments to handle your needs.
Please use our online abstract order form for the following:
- New Abstracts
- Abstract Updates
- Title Review
- Mortgagee's Title Insurance
- Owner's Title Insurance