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Showing posts from February, 2024

President Lincoln's Title Woes: The Case for Title Insurance

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  February is not just the month for lovers; it's also a time when we reflect on our nation's history, including the lives of its leaders. As we celebrate Presidents Day, it's worth delving into the lesser-known aspects of their legacies. Did you know that one of our esteemed presidents, Abraham Lincoln, faced a peculiar challenge involving title defects that led to the loss of not one, but two homes? Let's journey back in time to explore this fascinating chapter in Lincoln's life and ponder how title insurance could have altered his story. Abraham Lincoln, widely revered as one of America's greatest presidents, encountered significant setbacks on his path to greatness. While most are familiar with his trials and triumphs on the political stage, fewer know about his struggles with property ownership. Lincoln, like many of his contemporaries, faced the complexities of land ownership in a rapidly expanding nation. However, his experiences with title defects prov...

Couples at Closing: The Decision About Tenancy

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The decision to buy a home is often one of the most significant milestones for couples. In fact, statistics indicate that a substantial 71% of all homebuyers consist of couples. Whether married or unmarried, these couples embark on the journey of homeownership, a decision that not only impacts their present but also their future. But what many might not consider in this process is the method of ownership or "taking title," a decision that can have legal implications for both the couple and their heirs. According to a report by Jessica Lautz published in a July 21st, 2023 RISMEDIA article titled "Married vs. Unmarried Couples in the Housing Market," married couples constitute the largest share of homebuyers at 61%, while unmarried couples make up 10% of this demographic. As these couples prepare to close on their new home, they must make a crucial decision regarding the method of ownership they will adopt. The most common options for joint ownership are Joint Tenants...