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Title Insurance

Protecting Your Property Rights

Ford & Reale Title Service provides residential and commercial title insurance throughout Upstate New York—delivering clear, marketable, and legally protected title for smooth, confident closings.

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Expert Title Protection That Safeguards What You Own

Hidden Issues That Can Delay a Sale

Common Title Problems

Even simple real estate transactions can be affected by issues hidden in the property’s history. These complications often surface late in the process, creating delays, added costs, or unexpected risk. Understanding what can go wrong—and how it’s resolved—helps keep your closing on track.

Forged or Fraudulent
Documents

Illegitimate signatures or deeds compromising ownership.

Conflicting or
Invalid Deeds

Errors in past property transfers leading to disputes.

Incorrect Property
Descriptions

Mistakes in legal documents affecting boundaries or details.

Outstanding
Liens

Unpaid mechanics’ liens, judgment liens, or tax liens.

Recording &
Indexing Errors

Clerical mistakes in official public records.

Undisclosed
Easements

Hidden restrictions that limit property use.

Claims from Missing Heirs & Spouses

Challenges to property ownership rights.

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What Does Title Insurance Cost?

Title insurance typically costs 0.5% to 1% of the purchase price, a one-time premium that provides protection for as long as you own the property. Title insurance rates are determined by four primary factors that influence the final cost.

This single premium provides lifetime coverage for your property rights.

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Title Search &
Examination Costs

Reviewing public records for ownership history and defects.

Resolving
Title Issues

Clearing any found problems before issuing the policy.

Claims
Coverage

Protection from financial loss due to covered title defects.

Operational Costs
& Profit Margins

Supporting compliant, sustainable title operations.

What a Title Policy Can & Can’t Do

A title policy is designed to protect you from financial loss tied to past issues in a property’s history. It acts as a safety net when hidden defects surface after closing—but it’s important to understand both its power and its limits.

A Title Policy Covers
  • Financial Protection
    Financial protection covers losses due to covered title defects.
  • Indemnification Up to Policy Limits
    Reimburses for losses up to the property value or policy limit.
  • Legal Defense Costs
    Covers attorney fees if ownership is challenged.
A Title Policy Does Not Cover
  • Guarantee of Marketability
    Protects against specific defects, but does not ensure a title is free of all claims.
  • Future Liens or Encumbrances
    Only issues that existed prior to the policy’s effective date are covered.
  • Tort Claims
    Disputes like trespassing, timber theft, or property damage unrelated to ownership are excluded.

Place your title order online today and ensure peace of mind for your property investment.

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QUICK LINKS

Get a Copy of Your Property Deed

Access your county’s official online records to view or download a copy of your deed.

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Property Transfers & Recording

Essential forms for recording property transfers and associated tax filings.

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Property Tax & Assessment Tools

Tools to understand property classifications and look up local tax bills.

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Ready to Protect Your Transaction?

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