Common Title Issues in Florida and How Title Companies Resolve Them

Buying or selling a home in Florida is exciting, but it can come with unexpected challenges—especially when it comes to your property’s title. Title issues can delay closings, cause confusion, or even threaten ownership rights. Fortunately, experienced title companies play a vital role in identifying and resolving these problems to ensure your transaction goes smoothly.

What Are Title Issues?

Title issues are defects or claims that affect the ownership of a property. They can range from simple clerical errors to serious legal disputes. Identifying these problems early is crucial to avoid costly surprises during closing.

Common Title Issues in Florida

• Liens and Judgments: Outstanding debts or court rulings against the property or previous owners, including unpaid taxes or contractor fees.
• Missing Heirs or Unknown Ownership: Unclear ownership due to deceased owners or inheritance disputes.
• Boundary Disputes and Easements: Conflicts over property lines or rights to use parts of the land.
• Clerical Errors and Incorrect Legal Descriptions: Mistakes in public records, misspelled names, or incorrect property details.
• Fraudulent Documents: Forged deeds or false claims that cloud ownership.

How Title Companies Resolve These Issues

Title companies act as problem solvers, using their expertise to clear the way for a clean title transfer. Here’s how they help:

• Thorough Title Search: A detailed examination of public records to uncover liens, judgments, or ownership issues before closing.
• Resolving Liens: Working with lienholders to pay off debts or negotiate releases so the title can transfer free and clear.
• Clearing Up Ownership: Investigating heirs, heirs-at-law, and related documents to clarify rightful ownership.
• Correcting Errors: Coordinating with county offices to fix mistakes in legal descriptions, names, or recordings.
• Fraud Detection: Using advanced verification techniques to spot fraudulent activity and halt suspicious transactions.
• Title Insurance: Providing insurance that protects buyers and lenders from future claims or defects not discovered during the search.

What This Means for You

Working with a knowledgeable Florida title company means you’re not alone when issues arise. Their proactive approach saves time, reduces stress, and protects your investment. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, a clean title is key to peace of mind and a successful closing.

If you have questions about title issues or want to learn how First Title Source, LLC can guide you through your next Florida real estate transaction, contact us today.

Top Questions Sellers Ask About Title Companies in Florida

If you're selling a home in Florida, you’ll likely hear a lot about title companies—especially as you approach the closing table. For many sellers, the title process feels unfamiliar or even confusing. That's why we’ve put together answers to the most common questions Florida home sellers ask about working with a title company. With a little guidance, you’ll feel confident and prepared every step of the way.

1. Do I Get to Choose the Title Company?

In Florida, the party who chooses the title company often depends on the county or what's agreed upon in the purchase contract. In many parts of the state, it’s customary for the buyer to choose. However, sellers can always request to work with a title company they trust—and experienced agents often negotiate this on your behalf.

2. What Does a Title Company Do for the Seller?

Title companies handle more than just the buyer’s paperwork. For sellers, they:

• Gather and verify information about ownership and legal status of the property
• Prepare your payoff statements, mortgage satisfaction, and lien releases
• Handle document signing and notary services
• Distribute your proceeds after closing (via wire or check)
• Ensure all legal and financial matters are closed cleanly and professionally

3. How Much Does the Seller Pay?

Title-related costs can vary based on local customs and contract terms. Sellers in Florida typically pay:

• Documentary stamp tax on the deed
• Owner’s title insurance (if customary in your county)
• Title search and related fees (if negotiated)
• Real estate agent commissions

Your title company will provide a detailed settlement statement outlining all your costs well before closing day.

4. What If There’s a Lien or Title Issue?

If there’s a lien, judgment, or other issue on your title, the title company will work closely with you to resolve it. They may:

• Coordinate lien payoffs or negotiate releases
• Clear old mortgages or errors in public records
• Help correct ownership discrepancies or legal documents

Their job is to ensure a clean title transfer so you can sell your home without any surprises.

5. When Will I Receive My Proceeds?

Sellers typically receive their funds on the same day as closing—either by wire transfer or certified check. Your title company will confirm your preferred method and securely disburse your proceeds after all documents are signed and any mortgages or liens have been paid off.

Selling a home is a big moment, and the right title company helps everything run smoothly. If you’re selling property in Florida, First Title Source is here to guide you with trusted service, clear communication, and timely support—every step of the way.

Reach out to our team to learn how we can assist with your closing.