A comprehensive title search includes which items?

• A. Tax assessment and judgment lien records, as well as the marriage, divorce, and probate records for every named grantor and grantee
• B. Only property deeds
• C. Only mortgage records
• D. Zoning records

Answer: (A)

A comprehensive title search examines more than deeds; it looks for every claim that could cloud title by examining a broad range of public records. Tax assessment records reveal tax liens that must be paid before the owner takes clear title, and judgment lien records show court judgments that can attach to property interests. The inclusion of marriage, divorce, and probate records for every named grantor and grantee helps confirm the correct identity and ownership chain, flags name changes, and uncovers any spousal rights or estate transfers that could affect title. Deeds show transfers of ownership but don’t reveal encumbrances, mortgage records cover only certain liens, and zoning records concern use rather than title status. So these records together provide a true picture of what could impact title.