What Is a Preliminary Title Report in Real Estate?

A Preliminary Title Report (also called a “prelim”) is an early version of a title report that outlines the property’s ownership, liens, easements, and title conditions before the final title commitment is issued.

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💡 Why a Preliminary Title Report Matters

A prelim gives buyers and sellers an early look at any potential title issues before closing begins. This allows problems to be resolved early, preventing delays later in the process.

  • ✔ Shows recorded liens and mortgages
  • ✔ Identifies easements and restrictions
  • ✔ Alerts buyers to possible title defects
  • ✔ Helps avoid late surprises in escrow
  • ✔ Used heavily in CA, AZ, NV, and escrow states

Related: Title Report

📌 What’s Included in a Preliminary Title Report?

A prelim typically includes the same information as a title report, but with early notes about issues that must be cleared before issuing a policy.

  • Ownership history (chain of title)
  • Current owner of record
  • Open deeds of trust (mortgages)
  • Liens & judgments
  • Easements & encumbrances
  • Property legal description
  • Taxes due or delinquent
  • Title exceptions

See also: Chain of Title

🔎 Preliminary Title Report vs Title Commitment

These two documents are related, but serve different purposes:

  • Preliminary Title Report: Early disclosure document showing current title condition.
  • Title Commitment: The final, binding document outlining requirements to issue title insurance.

Learn more: What Is a Title Commitment?

❗ FSBO Warning: A Prelim May Reveal Issues That Block Closing

If the prelim identifies liens, ownership discrepancies, or unreleased mortgages, closing cannot move forward until the issues are cleared or resolved.

  • Tax liens or unpaid property taxes
  • Judgments against the seller
  • Divorce or probate-related ownership issues
  • Boundary or access easements
  • Mechanic’s liens

See also: Title Defect

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