Real estate glossary
Preliminary title report
Also called: Prelim, Title report
An early report from the title company showing who owns the property and any liens, easements or other items affecting it.
Shortly after escrow opens, the title company issues a preliminary report. It shows how title is currently held (the vesting) and lists the items that would be excluded from title insurance unless cleared — such as mortgages, liens, easements and recorded restrictions.
It is an offer to insure on those terms, not a final guarantee. Problems spotted here can usually be fixed before closing if they are caught early.
What it means for you as a seller
Review it as soon as you get it. Old loans that were never formally released, liens you did not expect or a name mismatch are much easier to fix early.
Related terms
- Title insuranceInsurance that protects the buyer (and their lender) against covered problems with ownership that existed before the sale.
- LienA legal claim against a property for an unpaid debt, such as a mortgage, tax bill or unpaid contractor, usually paid off at closing.
- EscrowA neutral third party that holds the money and documents for a home sale and releases them only when every condition is met.
Not legal or tax advice. These explanations are general information to help you follow your own transaction. Laws, forms and customs vary by state and county, and the terms of your own contract always control. For advice about your situation, talk to your real estate agent, a real estate attorney or a tax professional. Last updated .