A client, Vicki, recently asked me if they needed to get Home title Lock (as advertised on the radio where a guy says he “can forge your deed and steal your house.”) Have you heard it? To be certain, I verified this with my Old Republic Title Company. They said that their title insurance does protect for a forged deed.

If Vicki is wondering about this, I suspect others are too.

Buying a home is an exciting and emotional time. To help you buy your home with more confidence, make sure you get owner’s title insurance. Here are seven reasons why it is so important for you.

1. Protects your largest investment. A home is probably the single largest investment you will make in your life. You insure everything else that’s valuable to you—your life, car, health, pets, etc., so why not your largest investment? For a one-time fee, owner’s title insurance protects your property rights for as long as you or your heirs own your home.

2. Reduces your risk. If you’re buying a home, there are many hidden issues that may pop up only after you purchase your home. Getting an owner’s title insurance policy is the best way to protect yourself from unforeseen legal and financial title discrepancies. Don’t think it will happen to you? Think again. Unexpected title claims include: -- outstanding mortgages and judgments, or a lien against the property because the seller has not paid his taxes -- pending legal action against the property that could affect you -- an unknown heir of a previous owner who is claiming ownership of the property

3.You can not beat the value. Owner’s title insurance is a onetime fee that’s very low relative to the value it provides. It typically costs around 0.5% of the home’s purchase price.

4. Covers your heirs. As long as you or your heirs own your home, owner’s title insurance protects your property rights.

5. Nothing compares. S Homeowners insurance and warranties protect only the structure and belongings of your home. Getting owner’s title insurance ensures your family’s property rights stay protected.

6. Eight in 10 homebuyers agree. Each year, more than 80% of America’s homebuyers choose to get owner’s title insurance.

7. Peace of mind. If you’re buying a home, owner’s title insurance lets you rest assured, knowing that you’re protected from inheriting any existing debts or legal problems, once you’ve closed on your new home.

The moral of the story is when you refinance, buy or sell, ALWAYS get title insurance! It’s the right move.