Title: Pennsylvania Checklist of Matters that Should be Considered in Making an Abstract or Opinion of Title Keywords: Pennsylvania, checklist, abstract, opinion of title, real estate, land records, property ownership, liens, encumbrances, mortgages, deeds, legal examination Introduction: When dealing with real estate transactions in Pennsylvania, it is crucial to ensure a proper examination of the property's title. A comprehensive checklist is used to conduct an abstract or opinion of title. This process entails a thorough review of relevant documents, records, and legal matters to determine the property's ownership and any potential issues that may affect its marketability. In Pennsylvania, multiple types of checklists are commonly used, including those for residential, commercial, and agricultural properties. Let's delve deeper into the checklist of matters that should be considered in making an abstract or opinion of title in Pennsylvania. 1. Identification of the Property: The property must be accurately identified, including the legal description, tax parcel number, and any surveys or maps associated with the property. 2. Chain of Title: The abstract or opinion of title must establish an unbroken chain of ownership, tracing the transfer of the property from the original owner to the current owner. 3. Property Records: Examine records held by the Recorder of Deeds or the Prothonotary to confirm the property's ownership history, including deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, and other encumbrances. 4. Liens and Encumbrances: Identify any existing liens or encumbrances on the property, such as tax liens, judgment liens, mechanic's liens, mortgages, or any recorded agreements that may affect the property. 5. Surveys and Boundary Lines: Review any existing surveys of the property and ensure that the boundaries align with the legal description. Verify any potential encroachments or boundary disputes. 6. Taxes and Assessments: Confirm that all property taxes and assessments are up to date and determine if there are any outstanding tax obligations. 7. Restrictive Covenants and Easements: Review any recorded restrictive covenants that impose limitations on the property's use, as well as easements granting others the right to use portions of the property. 8. Agreements and Contracts: Examine any agreements or contracts, such as leases, option agreements, or rights of first refusal, that may impact the property's ownership or future use. 9. Bankruptcy and Foreclosure: Check for any bankruptcy filings or foreclosure proceedings that may affect the property's ownership or create potential title defects. 10. Pending Litigation: Search for any pending litigation or legal disputes related to the property, as they may impact its marketability and pose potential risks to the new owner. Conclusion: The Pennsylvania Checklist of Matters that Should be Considered in Making an Abstract or Opinion of Title provides a comprehensive guide for conducting a thorough examination of a property's title. It encompasses various crucial aspects, including property records, liens, encumbrances, surveys, taxes, legal agreements, and potential legal disputes. Adhering to this checklist helps in identifying any title defects or concerns, enabling individuals involved in real estate transactions to make informed decisions and safeguard their interests.