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Dana Said:

Is every home owner required to have title insurance?

We Answered:

Short answer: no
Longer answer: lenders require it to protect their investment. However if you buy a house outright without borrowing money then it isn't a necessary part of the transaction; however, without it if there's a problem with the title you will be out all of the costs of fixing the situation.

Cassandra Said:

Who pays for title insurance in the state of Missouri?

We Answered:

I'm next door in Joplin. We've purchased two homes over the years and have paid for the title insurance both times.

Peggy Said:

I bought a home brand new from builder 4 years ago & didnt buy title insurance. Can I buy it now? How?

We Answered:

This doesn't sound possible. You should research your purchase. I think you'll find that title insurance was purchased. No lender I know will loan money without it. The home can be taken by anyone showing legal documents showing rightful purchase. An attorney is the obvious recourse.

Brandon Said:

does title insurance stop a sibling from claiming rights to a parents home that you purchased?

We Answered:

No - title insurance is to protect against title defects that were not discovered during the title search phase of your home purchase that may crop up and cause you grief, legal fees, etc. An example of a title defect is a mechanic's lien against the home that was not released or paid off prior to sale and the title being transferred to the new owner - " Your brother suing you for his share of your parents' home is not a title defect. It sounds like your brother's share went to his children, so he will have to sue his children - not you or your mother's estate. Good luck - family issues suck.

Claire Said:

In what situations is it wise to get home owner's title insurance?

We Answered:

While most people never end up needing it, it only takes once. I would never buy a property without it nor would I ever advise someone to forgo buying it. Small price to pay for peace of mind