A condensed history of title that summarizes transfers of ownership and encumbrances is known as?

• A. Certificate of title
• B. Chain of title
• C. Title opinion
• D. Abstract of title

Answer: (D)

The condensed history of title that summarizes transfers of ownership and encumbrances is the abstract of title. This document provides a concise synopsis of all recorded documents affecting the property's title—every transfer of ownership, liens, mortgages, encumbrances, judgments, and other matters found in the public records—so a buyer or lender can quickly see potential issues before purchasing or insuring the title. It’s what title companies use during a title search to assess risk and determine what may need to be cleared before closing.

In contrast, a chain of title is the full historical lineage of ownership, showing who owned the property over time, but not necessarily condensed to highlight encumbrances. A certificate of title is a current record issued by a title company or jurisdiction that certifies who owns the property at a given moment; it doesn’t summarize past transfers and encumbrances. A title opinion is a lawyer’s written assessment of the title’s status after reviewing the records, indicating whether the title appears marketable, rather than providing a summarized history.