# How to do a title search Performing a title search is a crucial step – usually performed by the title insurance company that is hired during closing – when purchasing property, ensuring there are no legal issues like liens, unpaid taxes, or disputes that could affect ownership. ## Open a Property Report To use Chicago Cityscape to do a kind of title search, all one needs to do is open a PIN-based Property Report. 1. On the Chicago Cityscape homepage, paste a 14-digit PIN (property index number) into the search field and select the "Go" button. 2. In the search results, select the link that has the PIN and matching address. 3. A PIN-based Property Report will open in a new browser tab. 4. In the Property Report's table of contents, select "Property & Ownership info". The page will scroll automatically to that section. 5. Look on the right side of the page for the "Recordings & title info" heading (see *screenshot 1* below). Using this list of recordings, which are a copy of what is recorded by the Cook County Clerk's office, (1) review the chain of title and (2) check for liens and encumbrances.  *Screenshot 1 showing the "Recordings & title info" section* ### Chain of title Reviewing the chain of title means examining the history of property ownership to verify that the current owner has the legal right to sell it. The chain of title is a sequential record of all previous owners (or "links") of a property, starting from the original owner and extending to the current one. This process ensures that the transfer of ownership was properly recorded and that there are no gaps or irregularities in the records. By reviewing the chain of title, you ensure that the property is free of ownership conflicts, making your purchase legally secure. ### Liens & encumbrances Checking for liens and encumbrances involves reviewing any legal claims or restrictions on a property that could affect its ownership or value. This is a crucial part of a title search, as it helps ensure that the property is free from obligations or disputes that could complicate a sale or transfer. #### Liens A lien is a legal claim placed on a property by a creditor as collateral for debt. Types of liens include: - Mortgage liens: A lender holds a lien until the mortgage is paid off. - Tax liens: If property taxes are unpaid, the government can place a lien on the property. (These will also appear in the [[Annual tax sale]] database.) - Mechanics liens: Contractors or suppliers who haven’t been paid for work can place a lien. If a lien exists, it must be resolved before the property can be sold, as the creditor has a right to claim the debt through the property. #### Encumbrances An encumbrance is a broader term for any restriction or claim on the property, which can include an easement that gives others the right to use part of the property (e.g., utility companies). By carefully conducting a title search, one can ensure the property’s legal status and avoid potential ownership disputes. # Related articles - [[Recordings]] - [[Shopping for a home]] - [[Brokers playbook|Playbook for brokers]]