Purchasing commercial real estate marks an exciting chapter—whether you’re opening a new business location, investing in property, or expanding operations. But before you pop the champagne, it’s essential to protect your investment. That’s where title insurance comes in.

What Is Title Insurance?

When you buy commercial property, you’re not just acquiring the physical space—you’re acquiring its title. Unfortunately, that title could carry hidden baggage, like past liens, undisclosed heirs, or fraud, any of which could put your ownership at risk.

Title insurance protects both buyers and lenders from financial loss due to defects in the title. It offers coverage for:

  • Undiscovered liens

  • Boundary disputes

  • Forged documents

  • Claims from unknown heirs

  • Errors in public records

With a title insurance policy, you’re not just buying protection; you’re buying peace of mind.

The Process: How to Get Title Insurance

The good news? It’s simple. Here’s how it works:

  1. Choose a trusted title company—like Patten Title.

  2. We conduct a thorough title search to uncover and address potential issues.

  3. You receive a title commitment outlining the status of the title.

  4. Purchase your policy, and we handle the rest.

Title insurance is a one-time cost that protects you for as long as you own the property.

Types of Policies

There are two primary types of title insurance:

  • Lender’s Policy: Required by most lenders, this protects the financial institution up to the amount they’ve loaned.

  • Owner’s Policy: Optional but highly recommended, this protects you and your equity in the property.

Both policies are essential to ensuring a clean and secure transaction.

Real Risks, Real Protection

Title insurance can save you from financial disaster. Even years after closing, if a title issue emerges—such as a forged signature or unpaid taxes—you’re protected. In extreme cases, your policy could even reimburse the full purchase price if ownership is challenged.

How Real Estate Agents Can Help

Agents play a vital role in ensuring a smooth transaction. Here’s how:

  • Educate clients early about the importance of title insurance in commercial deals.

  • Partner with a reputable title company like Patten Title to guide clients through the process.

  • Encourage both lender’s and owner’s policies to maximize protection.

  • Communicate potential red flags from the seller’s side, such as ownership disputes or property alterations.

Your guidance ensures clients understand what’s at stake—and that they’re covered from the start.

At Patten Title, we don’t just issue policies—we offer peace of mind. Our experienced team delivers VIP service, powerful tools, and the confidence to move forward. If you or your clients are preparing for a commercial purchase, let’s talk.