What does a title search help verify regarding a property?

A title search is a crucial part of the real estate transaction process as it focuses primarily on establishing the legal ownership of a property and identifying any encumbrances that may affect it. The correct answer highlights that a title search verifies ownership and any existing encumbrances.

When conducting a title search, a thorough examination of public records is carried out to track the chain of title, which indicates who has owned the property over time. This helps ensure that the current seller has the legal right to sell the property and that there are no disputes over ownership. Additionally, it uncovers any liens, mortgages, easements, or other claims against the property, known as encumbrances, that could affect the buyer's use and enjoyment of the property.

Understanding ownership and encumbrances is vital for any real estate transaction since these factors not only influence the property’s legal standing but also its marketability. Buyers need to be aware of any issues that may affect their investment or their ability to use the property as intended, making the title search an essential step in due diligence.

In contrast, local zoning regulations, property insurance provisions, and potential rental income, while important aspects of real estate, are not the primary focus of a title search. Local zoning deals with land