TITLE INSURANCE
Protect your property investment with coverage that helps prevent surprises—and backs you up if a covered title issue appears after closing.
We proudly partner with our Underwriter, Old Republic Title to provide title insurance for Residential, Commercial and Agricultural properties. For Residential properties we offer a Homeowner's Policy (Enhanced) in addition to Basic Policies offered for each property type.
What is Title Insurance?
Title insurance helps protect buyers and lenders from financial loss if a covered problem with the property’s ownership shows up—like an old lien, a recording mistake, or a dispute over who has legal rights to the property. Unlike most insurance, it’s typically a one-time premium paid at closing and focuses on past events that can affect ownership.
One-time premium. Long-term peace of mind.
ITG vs. Title Insurance
Both Iowa Title Guaranty (ITG) and title insurance help protect against certain title defects—but they’re structured differently, and have key differences..
Iowa Property
ITG is an option
Nebraska Property
ITG is not an option
Not sure if you need Title Insurance or Iowa Title Guaranty?
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Lender Requirements: Be sure to check with your Lender to determine their requirements.
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Cost: Oftentimes, the cost is comparable. Iowa Title Guaranty has standard rates, and may require Abstract creation or continuation costs, as well as an Attorney Opinion fees. Title Insurance premiums are an all-inclusive rate and increase based on the purchase price or loan amount.
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Coverages: Title Insurance offers Homeowners (Enhanced) policies, Iowa Title Guaranty does not.
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Procedure: Keep in mind that depending on your property type and location, Iowa Title Guaranty may require an Abstract be created or updated. Title Insurance does not require Abstracting. Title Guaranty always requires an Attorney Opinion, Title Insurance does not.
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Refinance Credits: Title Insurance offers the option of refinance credits if the property is being refinanced within 5 years, Iowa Title Guaranty Does not.
Learn more about Iowa Title Guaranty (ITG) →
Owner’s Policy vs. Lender’s Policy
Owner’s Policy (Buyer)
Protects the buyer’s ownership interest—helping cover covered claims, legal defense, and certain losses.
Lender’s Policy (Mortgage)
Protects the lender’s interest in the property for as long as the mortgage is in place. Most lenders require it.
Buying with a loan? You’ll typically see both policies in the transaction.
What Can it Protect Against?
Even with careful research, certain issues can stay hidden until after closing.
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Unpaid liens or judgments
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Recording or indexing errors in public records
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Forgery or fraud affecting ownership documents
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Missing or undisclosed heirs
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Errors in deeds or legal descriptions
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Unreleased mortgages or prior claims
Why Choose Clear Title For Title Insurance
MOST RESPECTED IN POTTAWATTAMIE COUNTY | The oldest
and most respected title company with records dating back to 1853
ATTORNEY ON SITE | Licensed in both Iowa and Nebraska
OFFICES IN 2 LOCATIONS | Council Bluffs, IA & West Omaha, NE
How the Title Insurance Process Works
01.
Open the Order
We collect basic details and confirm the best path for your transaction.
02.
Examine the Property
We complete the title work needed for the closing and flag issues early.
03.
Underwrite & Prepare a Title Commitment
The Commitment will set forth specific exceptions to title and requirements that must be met in order to insure the property.
04.
Clear & Prepare
We coordinate documents, signing requirements, and funds timing.
05.
Close & Insure
We complete signing and funding steps and guide what happens next.
FAQ
Do I really need an Owner’s Policy? If you’re buying a home, an owner’s policy protects you (not just the lender) from certain covered title issues that can surface later.
How can I estimate my title insurance cost? Check out our rate sheet for a quick estimate, then contact us to confirm costs based on your transaction specifics.
What’s the difference between title insurance and Iowa Title Guaranty? They both help protect against title defects, but they’re structured differently. If you’re unsure which applies to your transaction, we’ll guide you based on property location and file type.
I refinanced before—do I get a credit? In many refinance situations, you may qualify for a reissue rate / reduced premium, depending on timing and prior policy details. In some cases, that reduced rate may still apply even if your previous closing used a different title company. Send us the property address (and any prior policy info you have), and we’ll confirm eligibility for your file. Please note that refinance credits are only available for Title Insurance, not for Iowa Title Guaranty.
Is title insurance paid monthly? Typically no—title insurance is generally a one-time premium paid at closing.