Title insurance protects you from problems with an ownership title when you buy real estate. These may be problems that existed before the purchase, such as: (1) unpaid property taxes, (2) fraud or forgery of previous paperwork, or (3) a spouse or unknown heir who claims they own the property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Title companies search for problems with the title that need to be corrected before you buy the property. If there\u2019s a challenge to your ownership later, your title company will handle the dispute.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Texas, title policy language is the same no matter which title company you use. Coverage begins immediately, but you won\u2019t get a paper copy of the policy until about 30 days after you close on your house. Read the policy carefully and ask the company if you have any questions. Keep it with other important documents for your house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
All Texas companies charge the same rates for title insurance. There may be differences in some closing cost fees. The cost of an owner\u2019s policy is based on the property\u2019s sale price. The cost of a loan policy is based on the amount of the loan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your real estate agent, builder, or lender may recommend a title company, but you can choose any company you want. Make sure the title agent is licensed by Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). To check, you can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n