Buyer's Due Diligence with Preliminary Title Report
Preliminary Title Report...
Soon after escrow is opened, you should receive a very important document - the preliminary title report (or prelim) from your title company.
This report shows who currently owns the property that you want to buy, as well as any money claims (such as mortgage liens, income tax liens, judgments and property tax assessments) that affect the property.
The report also shows third party restrictions and interests, such as condominium CC&Rs and utility company or private easements, that limit your use of the property.
Your contract or purchase agreement will be contingent upon your review and approval of the preliminary title report. Look it over carefully, and simply ask your title company representative to explain anything in the report that you don't understand.