What does an affidavit of title certify about the seller or grantor?

An affidavit of title serves a crucial role in real estate transactions by certifying specific facts about the seller or grantor's ownership of the property. When an affidavit of title indicates the absence of defects in the title since a specified date, it provides assurance to the buyer that, since that date, the seller has not encountered any legal issues or claims against the property that could affect the buyer's ownership rights.

This certification is significant because it helps mitigate risks associated with title defects that might emerge after the seller acquired the property. By confirming that there are no known defects, liens, or claims, the affidavit fosters trust and transparency in the transaction, providing buyers with confidence that they are receiving a clear title. This assurance is particularly important in real estate, where issues with the title can lead to significant legal complications and financial loss.

While market value, previous ownership history, and tax payment status can be relevant aspects of a property transaction, they are not typically covered by the affidavit of title, which is specifically focused on title integrity and legal standing since the defined date.