What is the difference between owner’s and lender’s title insurance?

Owner’s title insurance protects the homeowner from financial losses or legal costs related to title disputes or defects. This one-time purchase ensures that you, as the property owner, are covered. Lender’s title insurance, on the other hand, protects only the lender's interest in the property if a title issue arises. Note that while lender’s title insurance is commonly required, owner’s title insurance is optional but highly recommended.

Is owner’s title insurance a one-time fee?

Yes, owner’s title insurance is a one-time fee paid at the time of closing. Unlike other types of insurance that require monthly or annual payments, this policy remains in effect for as long as you or your heirs hold an interest in the property. Its long-term coverage for a single upfront cost makes it a cost-effective way to protect your investment.

5 Smart Title Tips from Detroit’s Mammoth Building Redevelopment

Blue Pointe Title
Sep 24
3 min read

Title Insurance for Historic Adrian Michigan Real Estate

Detroit Enters a New Development Phase—But Title

The Mammoth Building on Detroit’s west side has finally begun its demolition after two years of legal disputes. Once a thriving commercial facility, the building became derelict after sitting abandoned for over two decades. Vacant since 2000, this once-vibrant landmark deteriorated until its removal cleared the way for new development opportunities along the Grand River corridor.

Another major initiative—the $1.6 billion Renaissance Center redevelopment—will reshape Detroit’s riverfront, replacing two towers with new residential and entertainment spaces.

As Detroit undergoes this wave of commercial redevelopment, a new trend emerges: progress demands clear titles as much as strong foundations. Title clarity is essential in Michigan’s redevelopment zones—including Detroit.

5 Title Tips for Safer Commercial Development

At Blue Pointe Title, we’ve compiled five crucial title tips to help ensure your future home purchase is built on solid legal ground.

1. Perform Deep Title Searches

Older buildings bring both historical value and potential complications. Title problems—like unpaid taxes, ownership disputes, or forgotten easements—can derail your project. A qualified title company should conduct a thorough title search to identify hidden risks, especially for properties with a long or complicated ownership history.

2. Resolve Nuisance and Blight Liens

The Mammoth Building faced significant legal hurdles due to city code violations and tax liens. Abandoned buildings often accumulate municipal liens. Before investing, verify that all nuisance or blight liens have been resolved to avoid costly legal entanglements.

3. Confirm Structural Ownership

Multiple past owners can lead to unclear or fragmented title chains. Inheritance disputes, partnership dissolutions, or abandoned deeds can complicate ownership claims. Always confirm the seller’s authority to transfer the property—uncertain title structures can delay closings or cancel deals altogether.

4. Understand Environmental Liabilities

Demolitions often reveal hidden environmental hazards like asbestos, underground storage tanks, or soil contamination. These risks may not appear in standard disclosures. Ask your title company whether commercial title insurance policies can be customized to include endorsements for environmental liabilities.

5. Secure Commercial Title Insurance Early

Title issues don’t wait—and neither should your coverage. Commercial title insurance protects your investment against surprises like unrecorded liens, forged documents, or prior ownership disputes. Get insured before closing. At Blue Pointe Title, we provide expert services early in your project to identify and resolve issues before they cause delays.

Picture a Clean Title—Not Just a Clean Lot

Detroit’s future isn’t just built on cleared land. It’s built on legal security. Blue Pointe Title offers full commercial title services across Michigan, including thorough investigations, lien resolution, and title insurance protection. We support commercial buyers, developers, and lenders in achieving confident closings from day one.

Ready to Take Action?

Your Detroit redevelopment initiative is ready to move forward—now your title needs to be, too.

📞 Contact Blue Pointe Title in Adrian, MI at (517) 258-1511

🧾 Request a quote for your Michigan commercial title insurance today

We’re ready to support your next project with comprehensive title services—from the ground up.

Commercial Redevelopment Title FAQs

Q1: What title problems should be reviewed before redevelopment?

A: Check for unpaid taxes, code violations, unresolved liens, and gaps in the chain of title.

Q2: Does commercial title insurance cover environmental or demolition-related claims?

A: Yes—customized commercial policies can include endorsements for environmental risks and related legal expenses.

Q3: Is full title clearance common in redevelopment projects?

A: Not always. That’s why working with a proactive title company like Blue Pointe Title is essential.

Contact us now by phone at (517) 258-1511 or reach out to us here.