Get an encumbrance provider to help with a title search of the property Check the property for encumbrance information by getting or completing a title search. This will protect you from anything unexpected that may turn up prior to closing. Most mortgage companies require a property search to protect them from housing encumbrance problems as well.

I recommend:  Request a title search online from Pacific Corporate and Title Services. Or, although having a professional search is recommended, you can do the search yourself by looking up the information in the county where the property is located by using Nationwide Environmental Title Research. Click on the state and choose the county where the property is located to begin the search.

Order title insurance to protect yourself from an encumbrance Protect yourself from encroachment of a neighbor's fence or buildings, unnoticed mortgages or other potentially costly disputes by acquiring title insurance. This protects you from home encumbrance issues on the property. Unlike other types of insurance that have a monthly bill, title insurance is generally collected at closing as a one-time fee.

I recommend:  Consider ordering your title work and insurance online with Chicago Title. Or compare prices and save. First American also offers residential and commercial solutions online.

Find encumbrance information online for oil and gas rights Look at another type of encumbrance: mineral rights. The mere fact that you own the surface of the land doesn't mean you're entitled to the oil, gas or other resources below the surface. In fact, you can buy and convey mineral rights separately from surface ownership.

I recommend:  Search online at the Mineral Rights Store to find and purchase rights or leases. Or you can bid online for mineral interests on EnergyNet's website.