The most common form of title found in the United States, an abstract of title is a condensed history of all deeds, mortgages and other documents relating to a particular piece of land, which affect the title. If parts of the original parcel of land have been sold, the deeds are included in the abstract.
Information is gathered from pertinent sources such as:
An abstract of title and a title insurance policy are forms of title evidence. An abstract of title showing the history of property would need to be examined by a real estate attorney. Upon review, the attorney would render their opinion of the title. In contrast, a title insurance policy, when issued, will ensure the condition of that title.