What is an abstract? Doesn't it tell
about the property?
An abstract, which is used in some parts
of the country, is a history of the title to property as revealed by
public records. Deeds, mortgages, other instruments and legal
proceedings which have affected property through the years are all
included in the abstract.
If something is revealed in the abstract
which might stand in the way of a clear title, it is up to the owner and
the owner's attorney to clear it away. If they cannot do this, it
must be accepted as a limitation on your right to ownership. Also,
it is not infrequent for matters which seriously affect the title to be
omitted in an abstract, because they are not shown in the public
records.
Return to the
Information Center
