Property Title Searches in Massachusetts (MA)

Massachusetts is the most populous state in the New England region. While it is the sixth smallest state by land area, it is the 15^th most populous state in the United States. Boston is the state’s capital and financial center. As a state near the Atlantic, Massachusetts is a big tourist spot and home to many sporting events.

Why Do You Need a Property Title Search in Massachusetts?

A property title search is necessary to ensure there are no clouds on the title, and to identify all of the mortgages, judgments and liens on the property and against the owner. Existing liens such as municipal liens as well as delinquent taxes will attach to the property and can survive foreclosure. This means that even after the property has been sold, the debt will become the new owner’s responsibility.

The Role of Title Insurance in Massachusetts Real Estate

While a property title search is essential for uncovering potential issues, title insurance provides an additional layer of protection for both buyers and lenders in Massachusetts. This insurance protects against any future claims or disputes that might arise due to previously undetected issues, such as forged documents, undisclosed heirs, or errors in public records. Massachusetts, with its unique property laws and county-specific nuances, can present unexpected challenges in real estate transactions. Title insurance ensures that, even if a hidden defect is found after the purchase, the financial burden doesn’t fall on the new property owner or the lender, providing peace of mind in an often complex market.

How Much is a Massachusetts Property Search?

Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs for different types of title searches in Massachusetts:

Type of Search	Cost
O&E Report (Residential)	$87.95
Two Owner Search (Residential)	$137.95
30-Year Search (Residential)	$185.00
Title Update	$40.00
Deed Search	$35.00
Commercial O&E Report	$250.00

Price depends on the county; lowest price shown. Prices are subject to change.

What Affects the Cost of a Title Search in Massachusetts?

Several factors can affect the cost of a title search in Massachusetts. These include:

• The property is mistakenly ordered as a residential search but is assessed as commercial.
• The vesting deed on a Current Owner Search was recorded over 30 years ago.
• The search reveals a large volume of property records to review.

What Makes Massachusetts Real Estate Records Unique?

Every state has its quirks in how property records are handled, and Massachusetts is no different:

• Local Tax Collection: Unlike many states, Massachusetts collects property taxes at the city or town level, not the county.
• Multiple Recording Offices: Some counties, like Berkshire, are divided into multiple recording offices, requiring property searches in specific sections (e.g., Berkshire Middle, Northern, or Southern).
• Distinct Registries: Documents may be categorized under "Recorded Land" or "Registered Land," depending on the county.
• Municipal Liens: In Massachusetts, a "Municipal Lien" is filed alongside a mortgage to indicate current tax status, not an actual debt.
• Quit Claim Deed Differences: A Quit Claim Deed in Massachusetts represents a standard full-value transfer, unlike other states where it may indicate a familial or partial-value transfer.

Massachusetts Counties Served

Barnstable, Berkshire, Bristol, Dukes, Essex, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex, Nantucket, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk and Worcester,

Frequently Asked Questions
from Customers in Massachusetts

How long does it take to get a title report in MA?

The process of a property search generally takes up to 48 business hours, however, if you select our expedite service, it could be completed in as few as four hours.

How to find out who owns a property in Massachusetts for free?

To determine property ownership, the county clerk or county recorder would typically have the necessary details. As long as you have the location and county of the property, you can generally access this information at no cost.

How do I order a title search in MA?

You can place an order with Mortgage Services by visiting their website, calling them at (219) 235 8822, or sending an email to info@mortgage-services.com.