Property Title Searches in West Virginia (WV)

With nearly 1.8 million residents, West Virginia is the 12 ^th least populous state. West Virginia's real estate market is intricately tied to its diverse economic landscape. Historically reliant on coal mining and manufacturing industries, the state has diversified its economy in recent years, with a growing focus on sectors such as healthcare, tourism, and technology. While challenges persist, including population decline and economic restructuring, West Virginia's real estate market has shown resilience.

Cities like Charleston and Morgantown offer opportunities for real estate investment, with a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty attracting both residents and businesses. Moreover, the state's affordable housing market and low cost of living make it an attractive destination for retirees and young professionals alike. Despite economic fluctuations, West Virginia's real estate sector continues to evolve, reflecting the state's ongoing efforts to adapt to changing economic trends and attract new opportunities for growth.

Understanding Property Title Searches

Understanding property title searches is essential in real estate transactions. These searches involve examining public records to verify the ownership history and uncover any potential issues or encumbrances related to a property's title.

Why is a Title Search Crucial?

Title searches are crucial because they are conducted to ensure that the seller has the legal right to sell the property and that there are no competing claims or liens against the title. By identifying any title defects early in the process, buyers and lenders can mitigate risks and avoid legal disputes.

The Cost of Title Searches in West Virginia

Type of Search	Cost
O&E Report (Residential)	$115.00
Two Owner Search (Residential)	$149.95
30-Year Search (Residential)	$250.00
Title Update	$40.00
Chain of Title Search	$75.00
Commercial O&E Report	$350.00

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

Advantages of Partnering with a Title Search Company

Partnering with a title search company provides expertise, efficiency, and risk mitigation in real estate transactions. Their professionals streamline the process, reduce the chance of hidden issues, and offer peace of mind to both buyers and lenders.

A Step-by-Step Guide to the Title Search Process

• Locate the real estate on the assessor's page and obtain the assessed value, parcel number and other pertinent information.
• Review the tax status from the county tax collector to determine if the taxes are paid, due or delinquent.
• Search the owner and property through the county recorder's property records to find applicable deeds, open mortgages, mortgage associated documents, as well as any other documents that are relevant to the title.
• Search for foreclosure cases, judgments and liens against the individual and the property

West Virginia Counties Served

Barbour, Berkeley, Boone, Braxton, Brooke, Cabell, Calhoun, Clay, Doddridge, Fayette, Gilmer, Grant, Greenbrier, Hampshire, Hancock, Hardy, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson, Kanawha, Lewis, Lincoln, Logan, Marion, Marshall, Mason, McDowell, Mercer, Mineral, Mingo, Monongalia, Monroe, Morgan, Nicholas, Ohio, Pendleton, Pleasants, Pocahontas, Preston, Putnam, Raleigh, Randolph, Ritchie, Roane, Summers, Taylor, Tucker, Tyler, Upshur, Wayne, Webster, Wetzel, Wirt, Wood, and Wyoming.