Business Details
20 Years
experience
Trusted Title Services in Mount Ayr, IA
Founded in 2006, Abstract & Title operates as a full-service title company dedicated to ensuring transparency and reliability in real estate transactions. Our government entry title plant is certified by the Iowa Land Title Association (ILTA), undergoing rigorous inspections every seven years to maintain accuracy. With a team boasting over 60 years of combined experience in land title services, we collaborate closely with attorneys, banks, and real estate agents to eliminate hidden risks for property buyers. As a family-owned business, we prioritize personalized service and have modernized operations through IT advancements while maintaining traditional values. Our staff includes certified professionals recognized by the ILTA, reflecting our commitment to excellence.We are proud members of the American Land Title Association and Iowa Title Guaranty, reinforcing our industry leadership. Our roots in the community date back to 2006 when we established the only government entry title plant in Ringgold County. Through continuous innovation and adherence to strict standards, we provide comprehensive title solutions tailored to client needs. Our dedication to accuracy and customer satisfaction has solidified our reputation as a trusted partner in real estate transactions. We remain committed to evolving with industry demands while upholding the integrity that has defined our service since inception.
Services
Abstract of Title
Title Searches
Personal Lien Searches
Title Guaranty Forms
Notary Services
Root of Title
Abstract Continuations
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Our staff has over 60 years of combined experience in land title services.
- We are locally-owned and family-operated, ensuring long-term community commitment.
- Certified title plant by the Iowa Land Title Association (ILTA) for accuracy.
- Recognized with ILTA professional awards for excellence in title services.
- Modernized operations with IT integration while maintaining traditional standards.
Associations and certifications
- Iowa Land Title Association (ILTA)
- American Land Title Association
- Iowa Title Guaranty
Services
Abstract of Title
An Abstract of Title is a chronological summary of a property's legal history, including ownership transfers, liens, encumbrances, and legal actions. Our certified title plant ensures comprehensive documentation from initial deed grants to present-day records. This service identifies potential risks like unpaid taxes or unresolved liens, protecting buyers from unforeseen liabilities during property transactions.
Title Searches
Title searches examine current ownership and recent claims against a property, focusing on the most recent chain of title. We verify mortgages, easements, and judgments to confirm clear ownership. Our ILTA-certified processes ensure accuracy, providing clients with reliable data to make informed real estate decisions.
Personal Lien Searches
Personal lien searches identify financial obligations tied to a property, such as unpaid taxes or contractor debts. Our team reviews court and tax records to uncover hidden claims, ensuring buyers assume no unexpected liabilities. This service is critical for risk mitigation in property acquisitions.
Title Guaranty Forms
We provide Iowa Title Guaranty Forms 900 and 901, essential for certifying title accuracy and compliance. These forms guarantee the validity of title plant records and are required for certain real estate transactions. Our staff ensures proper documentation to meet state-specific legal standards.
Notary Services
Our in-office notary services authenticate legal documents, including deeds and mortgages, to prevent fraud. Certified by the state, we verify identities and ensure proper execution of real estate paperwork. This service streamlines transactions for clients requiring official document validation.
People
Mike McLain
Vice President
Mike McLain joined the family business in 2006 after a healthcare career. He earned the ILTA Certified Land Title Professional designation in 2013 and served as ILTA President from 20152016. Honored as the 2022 ILTA Ed Adams Title Person of the Year, he leads legislative and standards committees.
Casey McLain
IT and Marketing Director
Casey McLain, a third-generation abstractor, joined in 2021. He modernized office operations and received the 2023 Ed Adams Young Title Person of the Year award. His dual role in IT and marketing enhances service efficiency and client engagement.
Geraldine McLain
Bookkeeper
Geraldine McLain founded Union County Abstract in 1982 and co-founded this company in 2006. With a real estate license since 1978, she manages bookkeeping for both offices and previously served on the ILTA Board of Directors.
Questions
What is an Abstract of Title?
An Abstract of Title is a chronological summary of a property's legal history, including ownership transfers, liens, and legal actions.
How much does an abstract update cost?
Costs vary based on the time since the last update and the volume of new records requiring review.
Who provides the abstract during a property sale?
The seller is typically responsible for providing the abstract to the buyer.
How long does an abstract update take?
Preliminary updates take 3 days, final updates 7 days, and new abstracts up to two weeks.
What areas do you serve?
We serve all of Ringgold County, including Mount Ayr, Diagonal, and Kellerton.
Are your title plant records certified?
Yes, our government entry title plant is certified by the Iowa Land Title Association.
