Buying new a new construction property has many advantages – such as customization of finishes, modern floor plans and all new mechanicals. When it comes to closing on the new home, the closing attorney or title company will offer you an “owners” title policy.

Unlike the lender title policy, which is mandatory if you’re obtaining a mortgage, an owner’s policy is completely optional. And for good reason – you may not need it at all.

There are three main questions to ask when considering if you need an owners title policy.

1- Are you paying cash for the home or obtaining a mortgage?

2- Is the builder a national corporation or a local general contractor?

3- How large is the development/neighborhood that is being built?

We will explore why these questions matter and how they might impact your decision. But first, it’s important to explore what title insurance actually covers and the risks it is designed to mitigate against.

Cash or mortgage?

Since your lender wants to be sure the property has clear title, they will require that a “Lender’s Title Policy” be purchased. As a result, you’ll need to factor this into your closing costs as the buyer. In short, you’ll be on the hook for the lender’s policy premium no matter what if you’re getting a mortgage. For a $500,000 home, the typical cost of the lender’s policy is about $950.

National or local builder?

For a new build property, mechanic’s liens for large scale developments are very unlikely because the national builders generally pay their bills and have in-house attorneys that can resolve liens quickly. Small builders on the other hand, are more likely to encounter problems with subcontractors which may impact you as the homebuyer.

In addition, large corporate builders do extensive diligence on the front end to ensure there are no major historical “flaws” in the title chain. Title insurance covers mistakes made in the recorders and registrars of deeds’ offices, but this may be redundant if the builder themselves have already negated this risk. In other words, buying extra title insurance may be redundant if it covers risks that were already resolved.

Major development or small neighborhood?

In general, a title search will uncover any existing liens and a survey will determine the boundaries of the property you’re purchasing. Luckily when a major development is constructed, attorneys typically de-risk much of the boundary dispute issues that may be surfaced initially by a large, corporate builder.

However, if your contractor is developing a 3 home neighborhood and does not have the resources or experience to uncover potential land disputes, you may want to obtain an owner’s policy simply for peace of mind.

Basic versus Premium Coverage

If you do decide to purchase an owner’s title policy, make sure to ask the title company or closing attorney if they can provide a quote on “basic” coverage rather than premium coverage.

All of the major title policy issuers – such as Fidelity, First American, Stewart Title and Old Republic all have different tiers/levels of coverage. You could save thousands by downgrading your policy, simply by asking prior to your closing.

Understanding the Necessity of Title Insurance in New Construction Projects

When delving into the complexities of purchasing a new construction home, it becomes imperative to address the question, “Do You Need Title Insurance For New Construction?” At a basic level, an owner’s title insurance company plays a crucial role in safeguarding your legal ownership and financial investment in a real estate transaction. Unlike resale properties, a new construction home comes with its unique set of challenges and potential title issues that could arise from undiscovered claims or disputes. By opting for an owner’s title insurance policy, you are ensuring that your rights and interests are protected against unforeseen title defects and title disputes, providing you with peace of mind throughout the transaction process.

Title problems can manifest in various forms, ranging from existing liens, errors in public records, to disputes over property boundaries. In the case of a construction home, these issues could be even more complex due to the numerous parties involved in the construction and sale of the property. Having an owner’s title insurance policy in place acts as a safety net, protecting you from potential financial loss and legal complications arising from title defects. This is distinct from a loan policy, which solely protects the lender’s interest in the property. Therefore, understanding the two types of title insurance is paramount for anyone involved in a new construction home transaction.

Navigating through the intricacies of a real estate transaction involving a new construction home necessitates a thorough understanding of the potential risks and how to mitigate them. An owner’s title insurance company is instrumental in this process, providing expertise and support to identify and resolve any title issues before they escalate into major disputes. By securing an owner’s title insurance policy, you are not only protecting your investment but also ensuring that all parties involved in the transaction are on the same page, leading to a smoother and more secure real estate experience.