Colorado Title Insurance vs. Title Search: What’s the Difference?
- Jerad Larkin
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Introduction: Clearing Up the Confusion
Many Colorado buyers and sellers ask: “Isn’t a title search the same thing as title insurance?” While they’re closely related, they serve different purposes.
In this blog, we’ll break down the difference between a title search and title insurance in Colorado, explain why both matter, and highlight why Jerad Larkin and Chicago Title Colorado are trusted to provide both across Denver, Colorado Springs, and the Front Range.
What is a Title Search?
A title search is a detailed review of public records to confirm the legal ownership of a property.
It checks for:
Outstanding liens or judgments.
Unpaid property taxes.
Ownership disputes or inheritance claims.
Easements or restrictions.
Errors in past recordings.
The goal: to confirm that the seller has a clear right to transfer ownership.
What is Title Insurance?
Title insurance is a financial protection policy issued after the title search.
It protects against:
Problems that weren’t uncovered during the search.
Fraud, forgery, or undisclosed heirs.
Errors in public records.
Boundary disputes.
Liens or claims that arise after purchase.
The goal: to protect the buyer’s ownership rights and the lender’s lien position.
Key Differences Between Title Search and Title Insurance
Title Search | Title Insurance |
Investigates ownership history | Protects against ownership issues |
Conducted before closing | Issued at closing |
Identifies potential risks | Provides financial coverage |
One-time process | One-time premium, lasting protection |
Why Both Are Needed in Colorado
Title Search ensures that known issues are addressed before closing.
Title Insurance provides protection if hidden issues surface later.
Together, they ensure ownership is secure both now and in the future.
Cost in Colorado
Title Search: Usually included in the cost of title services, but can be $150–$400 if ordered separately.
Title Insurance: $1,000–$2,000 for an owner’s policy, regulated statewide.
Why Choose Chicago Title Colorado
Jerad Larkin and Chicago Title Colorado provide both services seamlessly. They offer:
Accurate title searches to uncover risks.
Comprehensive insurance coverage for buyers and lenders.
Secure escrow services to protect funds.
Local expertise across Denver, Colorado Springs, and the Front Range.
National financial strength for dependable claims coverage.
Real-Life Examples
A Denver buyer avoided closing delays because Chicago Title’s search flagged an old lien.
A Colorado Springs homeowner was covered when an undisclosed heir claimed ownership years later.
An agent in Boulder built client trust by explaining the difference between search and insurance.
Conclusion
So, what’s the difference between Colorado title insurance vs. title search?
The search investigates ownership history, while insurance protects against hidden risks. With Jerad Larkin and Chicago Title Colorado, you get both - thorough research and lasting protection.
Questions? Contact:
Questions? Contact Jerad Larkin at Chicago Title Colorado.
📞 303.630.9430
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