Deeds and Title
What is a Title?
The Right to Own Property
The first thing you need to understand about title is:
Title is not a thing, it’s a right.
Many people think of title as a legal document showing ownership of your property, but that is actually a deed. You can learn more about deeds here.
Title is not a form, but rather the legal right to the property.
However, that legal right is just as important as the paper deed because it is your actual ownership and right to use the property. The deed provides the paper evidence of that right, helping you prove your title to the property.
Title gives you the ability to live on the property, build on the property, and/or sell the property. Title has a variety of forms, which we cover in this discussion of property law.
Another difference between title and a deed is that one deed may be evidence of multiple title interests in one piece of property. Often the title to property is split as it is passed down over the generations. You may have a deed to the property, but that deed reflects a fractional interest, meaning that, in essence, you share ownership with other people. Those people may be family, business associates, or they may even be people you’ve never met depending on what you purchased.
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Why Does Title Matter?
Knowing what form your title takes is very important because your title may come with restrictions on the typical rights of a property owner.
For example, often if a building is listed on a historic registry, your title to the property is limited by whatever restrictions the local authority has placed. This could mean you may not be able to make additions to buildings or renovate the interior. We take a deeper look at common kinds of title restrictions here.
Understanding your title rights, having clear title, and ensuring that you are protected if someone challenges your title are all incredibly important to protecting your rights as an owner of property.
Conclusion
Title is your right to own and use your property. There may be other title owners of the same property, which is why the difference between title and deeds matters. Knowing what title you hold, what restrictions you have, and what that allows you to do with the property is vital to your ability to get the most out of your real estate.
The information provided in Blueprint Academy does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. All content is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to provide a complete description of the subject matter. Specific processes will vary based on applicable law. The title and closing process will be handled by a third-party attorney to the extent required by law. Product offerings vary by jurisdiction and are not available or solicited in any state where we are not licensed.