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Letter A
property

Abstract of Title

A condensed history of the title to a piece of land, listing all recorded instruments that affect ownership.

Encyclopedia entry: Abstract of Title

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abstract of title

An abstract of title is a summary of recorded facts used as evidence of ownership of real property . It lists significant actions affecting the title , such as the filing of liens and other encumbrancesconveyancestransfersassignments , and other matters relevant to the claimant’s ownership.

In Lunn v. Cummings & Lockwood, 56 Conn. App. 363 (2000) , it is explained that an abstract of title “merely recites what the land records disclose without giving opinion or advice as to the legal effect of what is found.”

[Last reviewed in August of 2025 by the Wex Definitions Team

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Encyclopedia content from Cornell LII Wex (CC-BY-NC-SA 2.5).

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This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.