What it is

What Is a Title Search — and Why Does It Matter?

Before a property can change hands, it needs a clean title — a legal confirmation that the seller has the right to sell, and that no outstanding claims, liens, or disputes could affect the new owner's rights.

A title search is the process of reviewing public records to verify ownership history, uncover any liens or judgments, and identify any encumbrances that could cloud the title. Without it, a buyer could unknowingly inherit someone else's debt, dispute, or legal problem along with the property.

Title insurance then protects against any claims or defects that weren't discovered in the search — a critical safeguard for both buyers and lenders.

Our Title Services

AC Abstract provides complete title search and insurance services for all types of Pennsylvania real estate transactions:
- Comprehensive title searches and reports for residential and commercial properties
- Owner's title insurance policies (protects the buyer)
- Lender's title insurance policies (required by most mortgage lenders)
- Title clearance — resolving defects, liens, and encumbrances found during the search
- Chain of title analysis and ownership verification
- Departmental, domestic, traffic, and judicial lien searches
- Certificate of Occupancy and building department searches
- Document recording at the County Register and Clerk's offices

A man shaking hands with an AC Abstract employee, while sitting next to a woman.

Who We Help

- Homebuyers purchasing their first or next property and wanting complete peace of mind
- Real estate agents who need a reliable title partner for their transactions
- Mortgage lenders requiring a lender's policy and clean title before funding
- Commercial buyers and investors conducting due diligence on complex acquisitions
- Estate executors and heirs transferring inherited property

Two men shaking hands over a title form and a model house.

About Us

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Ready to Work Together?

Whether you're a realtor looking for a reliable title partner, a lender managing a complex closing, or a homebuyer navigating your first settlement — our team is ready to help.

Contact Us Today →