Title Insurance (Owner's Policy)

Owner's title insurance protects the property owner against losses from title defects — undisclosed liens, forged deeds, boundary disputes, etc. One-time premium at closing; remains in effect while the insured owns the property.

What it means in practice

Owner's title insurance covers: forged documents in the chain of title, undisclosed heirs, tax liens, judgment liens, errors in public records. Lender's title insurance (separate policy) protects the lender's interest; owner's policy protects the owner separately.

Why it matters for LA multifamily

LA multifamily buyers almost always obtain owner's title insurance at closing (in addition to lender's policy required by the lender). Cost: 0.2-0.5% of purchase price, one-time. Protects against title defects discovered years later.

Related terms


From the Sterman LA Multifamily Glossary — defined the way a broker with $1.41 billion across 254 closed transactions actually uses these terms.

Michael Sterman, Senior Managing Director Investments, Marcus & Millichap.

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