Title Search in Colorado: Why It Matters for Buyers and Agents

Jerad Larkin
9 hours ago
3 min read

Introduction: The First Step in a Safe Transaction

When buying or selling a home in Colorado, one of the most important parts of the process is the title search. Many people ask: “What is a title search, and why do I need one in Colorado?”

A title search ensures that the property you’re buying has a clear ownership history, free from liens, disputes, or other legal issues. In this blog, we’ll explain what a title search includes, why it matters, and why Jerad Larkin and Chicago Title Colorado are trusted to handle title searches across Denver, Colorado Springs, and the Front Range.

What is a Title Search?

A title search is a detailed review of public records to verify legal ownership of a property. In Colorado, this process involves:

Checking property deeds.
Reviewing liens or unpaid taxes.
Verifying easements or rights-of-way.
Ensuring there are no ownership disputes or claims.

The result is a clear picture of whether the property is free of issues - or if there are risks that need to be resolved before closing.

Why Title Searches are Important in Colorado

Colorado’s growing housing market means more transactions, more construction, and more potential risks. Title searches help prevent:

Unpaid Property Taxes - Ensures no debts transfer to the buyer.
Mechanic’s Liens - Protects against unpaid contractors on new construction.
Clerical Errors - Corrects mistakes in past filings.
Inheritance Claims - Uncovers unknown heirs who may claim ownership.

Without a proper title search, buyers could face costly legal battles or even risk losing their property.

Who Performs a Title Search?

In Colorado, title searches are conducted by title companies or attorneys. The results are then used to issue a title insurance policy that protects buyers and lenders against financial loss from uncovered issues.

How Much Does a Title Search Cost in Colorado?

The cost of a title search is usually included in the overall title insurance fee. On its own, a search can range from $150 - $400, depending on the county and property type. However, most buyers pay as part of the closing package, which includes insurance, escrow, and recording fees.

Title Search vs. O&E Report

In Colorado real estate, you may hear about an O&E Report (Ownership & Encumbrance Report). While not as thorough as a title search, it provides a snapshot of ownership and liens. Many agents use O&E reports for listing presentations or farming, but for closings, a full title search is required.

Why Chicago Title Colorado is Trusted for Title Searches

Jerad Larkin and Chicago Title Colorado provide accurate, efficient title searches across the state. Their team offers:

Comprehensive searches that uncover hidden risks.
Quick turnaround to keep closings on schedule.
Agent tools like O&E reports and farming data.
Local knowledge of Denver, Colorado Springs, and Front Range markets.
Backed by a national underwriter for added security.

Real-Life Examples

A Denver buyer avoided a $20,000 lien after Chicago Title’s search uncovered unpaid contractor bills.
A Colorado Springs agent won a listing using an O&E report that highlighted clean title.
A Boulder seller avoided delays thanks to a pre-listing title search that resolved an old boundary dispute.

Conclusion

So, what is a title search in Colorado?

It’s the process of reviewing property records to ensure ownership is clean and free of risk. For buyers, sellers, and real estate agents, a title search is the first step to a secure closing - and with Jerad Larkin and Chicago Title Colorado, you’ll have peace of mind knowing the details are handled.