Tips for Dealing with Title Issues When Selling a NY Home

To sell a house in New York State, you must provide the buyer with a "clear title." A clear title proves you own the property and that there are no third-party claims on it. During the title search, issues can arise that "cloud" the title, halting the sale. Here is how common title issues are resolved.

1. Outstanding Tax Liens and Judgments

If you owe property taxes, water bills, or have active court judgments, the county will record a lien against your property. These liens are paid off at closing using the sale proceeds, clearing the title for the new buyer.

2. Unresolved Probate or Heir Claims

If the property was inherited, the title search may reveal missing heirs who have a legal claim to the home. The closing attorney must locate these heirs and have them sign a quitclaim deed to release their interest.

3. Boundary Line and Survey Disputes

Surveys can reveal that a neighbor's fence or driveway encroaches on your property line. Resolving this requires securing a boundary agreement with the neighbor before closing.

If you sell to Peak Cash Buyers, our title attorney manages the title work and resolves outstanding liens directly at closing. Read about our cash sale process.