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Define Cloud on Title in Real Estate

Cloud on Title: 

To put it simply, a cloud on title means there is something wrong with the ownership record of a property. It's like having a stain on a shirt that won't come out, except it's on a piece of paper that shows who owns the property.

A cloud on title can happen for many reasons, such as an old mortgage that was never paid off, a lien on the property for unpaid taxes, or a boundary dispute with a neighbor. These issues can cause problems when someone wants to buy or sell the property because it's not clear who the rightful owner is.

Example: 

For example, let's say someone inherited a property from their grandmother, but it turns out there's an old mortgage on the property that was never paid off. This means the bank still has a claim to the property, even though the new owner thought they had clear ownership. This is a cloud on title.

"Wit & Whimsy with the Dumb Ox: Unlocking Knowledge with Rhyme:"

Oh, a cloud on title, what a fright!
It means there's something not quite right.
Like a stain that won't come out of your shirt,
A cloud on title can cause a lot of hurt.

Perhaps there's an old mortgage still unpaid,
Or a tax lien that was never waived.
These issues can cause quite a mess,
When trying to buy or sell with finesse.

So if you're looking to own some land,
Make sure there's no cloud that's grand.
For a clean title is what you need,
To ensure your property rights indeed!