Question

What is the difference between a Certificate of Title and an Ownership and Encumbrance Report (O&E Report)?

Answer

A Certificate of Title is a limited search which shows the last deed of record, legal description, taxes, liens, and oil and gas information affecting the subject property.  It is not a full search and should not be relied upon to provide fee simple ownership information.  An O&E Report is a full search which shows fee simple ownership, legal description, taxes, liens, easements, rights of way, restrictive covenants, and any other recorded encumbrances affecting the subject property.