What document should a buyer review to ensure the seller has clear title?

• A. Title search
• B. Home inspection report
• C. Appraisal value
• D. Insurance coverage

Answer: (A)

The key idea is verifying ownership and any issues that could prevent a clean transfer. A buyer reviews the title search because it shows the history of ownership and lists all encumbrances, liens, mortgages, easements, covenants, or other restrictions tied to the property. This report reveals whether the seller can actually convey clear, marketable title at closing. If the title search uncovers a mortgage that hasn’t been discharged, a lien, or another defect, those matters must be resolved before or at closing so the buyer takes title free of clouds.

A home inspection looks at the physical condition of the property, not who owns it or what burdens the title carries. An appraisal assesses value, not title status. Insurance coverage protects against future risks but doesn’t verify who can convey title. So, the document to review to ensure clean title is the title search.