Building a home or developing land from the ground up is exciting—but it also introduces a unique set of legal, financial, and regulatory complexities. Unlike traditional resale transactions, new construction involves raw land, evolving plans, multiple contractors, municipal requirements, and a long timeline. Without the right protections in place, unexpected setbacks can threaten progress, budgets, and future marketability.

That’s where a trusted title partner like Patten Title becomes essential.
Below, we break down the key roles a title company plays in keeping new construction projects moving smoothly and securely.

Before any construction begins, it’s crucial to verify that the land is free from ownership disputes, unreleased liens, or unresolved encumbrances. This includes identifying potential mechanics’ liens from contractors or past suppliers—an issue that is more common with raw land or property with a long development history.

A comprehensive title search ensures builders, developers, and buyers have a clear understanding of the property’s legal standing from day one.

Even perfect land can become a problematic investment if zoning doesn’t align with the intended use. Using tools like Zonability, title professionals confirm zoning classifications and ensure compliance with municipal regulations before major resources are committed. This step helps prevent costly delays or redesigns later in the project.

New construction projects can be derailed by unpaid property taxes, assessments, or outstanding code violations tied to the land. Title companies complete a municipal lien search to uncover these issues early—ensuring they are resolved before they impact the project timeline or future sale.

If any problems surface—whether it’s an old lien, an ownership dispute, or a recording error—the title company works to clear the issue quickly and thoroughly. Resolving these items ahead of closing or construction helps avoid delays and protects all parties involved.

Title insurance is especially important in new construction due to the number of stakeholders and moving parts. Coverage can extend to mechanics’ liens, zoning issues, boundary disputes, and unforeseen title defects. This provides long-term protection and peace of mind for everyone involved in the project.

For new construction, closing isn’t always a one-time event—it can involve construction draws, phased funding, and multiple disbursements. Title companies act as escrow agents, ensuring funds are securely held and accurately distributed according to the draw schedule or project completion.

Many title companies, including Patten, offer remote online closings and dedicated new-construction teams that streamline documentation, communication, and scheduling. This helps reduce delays and keeps projects moving at the pace builders and buyers expect.

New construction carries unique risks—but with the right title partner, those risks become manageable and predictable. Patten Title helps builders, developers, lenders, and future homeowners move forward with confidence, ensuring every stage is legally sound, financially protected, and compliant with local regulations.

Whether you’re developing a subdivision or building your dream home, Patten offers A True Partner, a Solutions-Oriented approach, and VIIP Service from start to finish.