Colorado Title Search Process: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Jerad Larkin
Nov 11
2 min read

Introduction: Protecting Ownership Before Closing

When buying or selling a home in Colorado, one of the most important steps is the title search process. Many buyers ask: “What does a title search involve, and why does it matter in Colorado real estate?”

Learn the Colorado title search process. Jerad Larkin and Chicago Title Colorado explain each step, why it matters, and how it protects buyers and sellers.

A title search ensures that the property’s ownership is clear and free of issues before closing. In this blog, we’ll break down the Colorado title search process step by step, explain why it’s important, and show why Jerad Larkin and Chicago Title Colorado are trusted 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 property’s ownership history and check for legal issues. It verifies that:

The seller has the legal right to sell.
The property is free of liens, unpaid taxes, or judgments.
There are no ownership disputes or claims from heirs.
Easements or restrictions are properly recorded.

Step-by-Step Colorado Title Search Process

Order the Title SearchOnce a purchase contract is signed, the title company begins the title search.
Review Public RecordsThe title company checks county records, deeds, mortgages, liens, and judgments.
Check for EncumbrancesThe search identifies liens, unpaid taxes, easements, or restrictions.
Verify Legal OwnershipConfirms that the seller has a clear right to transfer ownership.
Issue a Title CommitmentOutlines requirements and exceptions before issuing title insurance.

Why Title Searches Matter in Colorado

Colorado’s mix of urban, suburban, and rural properties creates unique risks. A title search helps uncover:

Mechanic’s Liens from unpaid contractors on new builds.
Clerical Errors in county documents.
Inheritance Claims from unknown heirs.
Boundary Issues in rural areas with older surveys.

Without a title search, buyers risk inheriting costly problems.

Title Search vs. O&E Report

In Colorado, agents may use an O&E (Ownership & Encumbrance) Report for pre-listing insights. While helpful, it’s not as thorough as a full title search, which is required for issuing title insurance.

How Much Does a Title Search Cost in Colorado?

The title search is typically included in the overall title insurance package. If ordered separately, it may cost between $150–$400 depending on the county and property type.

Why Chicago Title Colorado is Trusted for Title Searches

Jerad Larkin and Chicago Title Colorado provide:

Comprehensive title searches that uncover hidden risks.
Fast turnaround to keep closings on schedule.
Clear title commitments to outline requirements and exceptions.
Local expertise in Denver, Colorado Springs, and the Front Range.
National financial strength for added peace of mind.

Real-Life Examples

A Denver buyer avoided a $24,000 lien because Chicago Title’s title search flagged it.
A Colorado Springs seller resolved an old tax issue before closing thanks to the search.
A Fort Collins agent impressed clients by explaining the title search process clearly.

Conclusion

So, what is the Colorado title search process?

It’s the review of public records to ensure clean ownership and uncover risks before closing. With Jerad Larkin and Chicago Title Colorado, buyers, sellers, and agents gain peace of mind knowing the property is clear and ready for transfer.