Abstract of Title

Abstract of Title, in law, a brief and orderly written statement concerning real property (land). It furnishes a complete history of the title to be transferred, showing not only the origin and nature of the interest of the seller but also all encumbrances and other interests, such as mortgages, easements, recorded judgments, and trusts that affect the title. The abstract is not necessary where the land is registered at the Land Registry.

After entering into a contract of sale, a purchaser of land generally employs a lawyer or a licensed conveyancer to make a search of the title and compile a report. If the abstract shows any defects in the title, the purchaser may refuse to proceed with the sale or refuse to proceed until such defects are cured by the seller. A similar procedure is generally followed by a mortgagee (the lender) before providing money on a mortgage.