A legal opinion of title is crucial for proving what kind of title evidence?

A legal opinion of title is essential for providing evidence of ownership based on the title's history, which is specifically captured in an abstract of title. An abstract of title summarizes the legal history of a property, detailing the chains of ownership, conveyances, encumbrances, and any potential claims against the property. This document is vital for closing a real estate transaction, as it provides insight into the legal standing of the property.

When a legal opinion of title is issued, it involves a thorough examination of the abstract of title. This helps ascertain whether the title is clear and marketable, indicating that the buyer can take ownership without the risk of unforeseen claims or liens. Therefore, the connection between a legal opinion of title and an abstract of title is direct and fundamental to proving the title's legitimacy and ensuring all potential issues are addressed before any transaction occurs.

In contrast, a deed of sale is a document that transfers ownership but does not inherently provide an evaluation of the title's validity. A purchase agreement outlines the terms of sale but also does not assess title issues directly. A property inspection focuses more on the physical condition of the property rather than addressing legal ownership status or claims, making these options less relevant to the question regarding title evidence.