Which document best protects buyers against defects in the title?

Title insurance is designed specifically to protect buyers against defects in the title to a property. This type of insurance provides coverage for issues that may arise after a property transaction, such as undiscovered liens, encumbrances, or ownership disputes. It assures buyers that they have clear and legal ownership of the property, and it covers the legal costs associated with defending against claims related to title defects.

In contrast to title insurance, a quitclaim deed transfers whatever interest the seller has in a property without providing any guarantees about the quality of the title. A general warranty deed offers some protection since it guarantees that the title is free from defects but is limited to the time when the seller owned the property. An abstract of title is a summary of the property's historical ownership and any recorded liens but does not provide any insurance against defects. Thus, title insurance stands out as the option that provides concrete protection and peace of mind for buyers regarding potential title issues.