Responsibility for paying for a title search is and largely determined by local custom rather than a single universal law. Who Typically Pays?
In some Midwestern markets, the cost is frequently split 50/50 between the buyer and seller. Key Factors in the Transaction title search buyer or seller
While either party can pay, the following common patterns often apply: Responsibility for paying for a title search is
In some Western and Southern states (e.g., parts of California and Texas), the seller customarily pays for the search or provides an owner’s title policy, which often includes the search cost. parts of California and Texas)
In many regions (e.g., the Northeast U.S.), the buyer traditionally pays the title search fee as part of their due diligence and loan requirements.