Any legal claim of ownership listed on the title A legal document listing the history of ownership of the home. A title report lists all parties with a legal claim to the property, what items need to be cleared from title before the new buyer can take possession, and if there are any easements or encroachments on the property. of the home. A mortgage lender An individual at a bank, mortgage company, or credit union that issues a borrower a loan. holds the most significant lien on a home; but utility companies, contractors and anyone a borrower owes money can file a lien on a home. Before buying a property, an escrow A neutral third party or attorney that handles the exchange of money and documents once mutual acceptance is reached on an offer. agent or attorney will investigate the title for liens that must be cleared before the buyer can legally own the home.