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Title insurance is a uniquely American form of protection.

The haphazardness of early American land sales - exemplified by the wild and wooly days of land rushes and frontier settlements - resulted in the first title insurance policy being sold in the 19th century.

Wild West land swaps, in turn, were based on the British colonial deed conveyance system in which land was sold and transferred along with a packet of deeds to the new owner. Despite careful review by a lawyer, titles could be easily be disputed, resulting in a surprise claim by the rightful owner.

The troubled history of American title claims, combined with regulations that continue to vary state by state (and sometimes within states) means that it is almost impossible to obtain a mortgage in the U.S. today without first buying a title insurance policy.

On the Web, find out more about title insurance, what it protects, how much it costs and additional tips, advice, facts and information on the insurance policy that American homeowners can't do without...

Title Insurance - Basic overview with examples of how title claims may arise, who is responsible for title claim disputes, and title insurance benefits to both lender and buyer.

Cut Your Title Insurance Costs - From Kiplinger's, with a jaundiced view of why title insurance is necessary, basic costs, and advice on how to avoid overpaying.

Title Insurance FAQ - Questions answered on title insurance requirement, how it protects the borrower, purchasing a new policy upon refinancing and related topics.

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