What is a certificate of title and what information does it show?

• A. A registry-issued document showing ownership, legal description, and encumbrances or restrictions affecting the property.
• B. A document that lists the mortgage balance and payment history.
• C. A private letter from the seller describing property features.
• D. A building inspection report.

Answer: (A)

The certificate of title is an official registry record that shows who owns the property, includes the legal description of the parcel, and lists any encumbrances or restrictions that affect the title. It confirms ownership and what claims or limits exist against the property—such as mortgages, easements, covenants, or liens—that could impact how the property can be used or transferred. This is why it’s the best choice: it provides the authoritative snapshot of both ownership and any interests that could limit or affect that ownership. It isn’t a mortgage balance, which would be found in a loan statement, nor a private seller letter or a building inspection report, which relate to different aspects of a transaction.