Final answer:
A buyer should have a title search made before purchasing a property to determine its legal ownership and identify any potential issues with the title.
Step-by-step explanation:
When should a buyer have a title search made?
A buyer should have a title search made before purchasing a property. A title search is an examination of public records to determine the legal ownership of a property and any outstanding liens or encumbrances on the title. It helps the buyer to identify any potential issues or problems associated with the property's title, such as unresolved mortgages, tax liens, or easements.
The title search is typically performed during the due diligence period, which is the time frame allowed for the buyer to investigate the property before finalizing the purchase. Conducting a title search is crucial to ensure that the buyer will obtain clear and marketable title to the property, free from any claims that could affect its ownership or use.
Once the title search is complete, the buyer can review the findings and address any concerns with the seller or their attorney. In some cases, the buyer may decide to withdraw from the purchase if significant issues are found during the title search.