Trusted Blacksburg Real Estate Attorney For Title Insurance And Property Protection
When buying a home or other real estate in Virginia, most people think about the sale price, inspections, and mortgage terms. But hidden issues with a property’s title can pose significant legal and financial risks long after the deal closes. That’s why title insurance matters. That’s also why having a knowledgeable real estate attorney involved in the process can make all the difference.
At Spicer, Olin & Associates, P.C., we help clients across Blacksburg and the New River Valley secure and understand title insurance coverage as part of a smooth and protected real estate transaction.
What Is Title Insurance and Why Is It Important?
Title insurance is a one-time purchase made during the closing process. It protects you (and your lender) from financial loss due to problems with the legal ownership of the property. These can include:
- Undisclosed liens or unpaid debts attached to the property
- Disputes over easements or encroachments
- Boundary line disagreements
- Forged signatures or fraud in the property’s chain of title
- Errors in public records or unreleased prior mortgages
- Unknown heirs with potential ownership claims
Without title insurance, you may be left to defend your ownership in court. Sometimes, this can happen years after your purchase.
Owner’s vs. Lender’s Title Insurance
Virginia law allows for both types of title insurance. Most mortgage lenders will require you to purchase a lender’s title insurance policy to protect their interest in the property. However, this does not protect you as the buyer. A separate owner’s title insurance policy protects your equity in the home and is strongly recommended.
Both are paid as a one-time premium at closing and last as long as you or your heirs are in the property.
What Your Real Estate Attorney Does During the Title Insurance Process
Our role is to make sure the title is clear and your rights are protected. We assist with:
While a title insurance company issues the policy, only a real estate attorney can offer legal Conducting a title examination and reviewing the chain of ownership
- Identifying any title defects, easements or unreleased liens
- Coordinating with the title insurance company and reviewing the title commitment
- Explaining the legal meaning of your title insurance policy
- Advising on when quiet title actions or dispute resolution may be necessary
- Supporting your interests if a title insurance claim arises
guidance on how to interpret or enforce it. We help ensure your policy does what it’s supposed to: Protect your investment.
Why A Clear Title Matters In Virginia Real Estate
In any real estate transaction, a clear and marketable title means the property can be legally transferred without existing claims or disputes. If unresolved issues remain, they can delay your closing or lead to costly legal battles after the sale.
As your real estate lawyer, we help you confirm that title to the property is legally sound before you finalize your purchase. This means reviewing the title commitment, identifying any title defects, and working with the title insurer and seller to resolve them when necessary. Our goal is to ensure your ownership is legally protected and fully documented from day one.
Common Questions About Title Insurance in Virginia
If you’re new to title insurance or real estate transactions, these are some of the most common questions we hear from clients in Blacksburg and the surrounding areas.
What does title insurance cover and why do I need it?
Title insurance covers financial loss caused by hidden title problems like unpaid liens, ownership disputes, or boundary issues. Without it, you could be responsible for defending your ownership in court at your own expense—even if the issue arose before you bought the home.
How is the cost of title insurance determined in Virginia?
Virginia’s title insurance costs are based on the value of the property and the type of policy issued. Because it’s a one-time premium paid at closing, many buyers find it to be a worthwhile investment. Your attorney can explain exactly what you’re paying for and why.
What title defects could affect my property rights?
Defects like clerical errors, missing signatures, unresolved mortgages, fraud or inheritance claims can threaten your legal ownership. Even if these defects occurred decades ago, they can still impact your current rights as a buyer.
Work With A Real Estate Attorney Who Understands Title Insurance
At Spicer, Olin & Associates, P.C., we help buyers across Blacksburg and the New River Valley protect their investment with the right legal guidance on title insurance. Whether you’re purchasing your first home or selling property with a complex title history, we’ll make sure you’re covered.
Call 540-315-8799 or message us online to discuss title insurance and real estate closing support.