Escrow & TitleIntermediateCalifornia Exam

A title company discovers a 'gap' in the chain of title. This means:

AThe property has no recorded liens, per customary closing procedure in California
BThere is a missing link in the recorded ownership history where it is unclear how title passed from one owner to the nextCorrect
CThe property is not insurable under any circumstances, under standard California escrow and title practice
DThe legal description of the property is incorrect, as typically handled by an escrow officer

Why There is a missing link in the recorded ownership history where it is unclear how title passed from one owner to the next Is Correct

Answer B: There is a missing link in the recorded ownership history where it is unclear how title passed from one owner to the next

A gap in the chain of title occurs when there is a period in the ownership history where it is unclear how title passed from one recorded owner to another — a deed or other instrument may be missing from the public record. This creates a cloud on title that must be resolved, often through a quiet title action or a quitclaim deed from the missing link's heirs.

Exam Tip: Escrow & Title

Escrow questions test the neutral third-party role and the sequence of closing events. Remember that the escrow agent acts as a dual agent for both buyer and seller and cannot advocate for either side.

Key Escrow & Title Terms in This Question

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