chain of title

Definition

The complete history of ownership transfers for a property from the original owner to the present. It's basically a property's family tree, except instead of embarrassing relatives, you're looking for liens and legal issues.

Example Usage

The title company found a break in the chain of title dating back to 1952, so closing is delayed indefinitely.

Origin

Legal term from English common law property traditions

Fun Fact

Some properties in older cities have chains of title stretching back hundreds of years, occasionally revealing they're built on ancient burial grounds.

Source: Real estate law and title terminology

Related Terms

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Turnkey

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Advanced

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deed restriction

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Advanced

spiv

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bridge loan

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common area maintenance

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