Title Insurance
How to Do a Title Search on a Property in Boise, Idaho
What Is a Title Search in Boise?
A title search examines public records at the Ada County Recorder’s office to trace property ownership and identify any legal issues. In Boise, title searches are conducted by title companies as part of every purchase and refinance transaction.
What Records Are Searched?
Deeds: Ownership transfers going back decades.
Mortgages/deeds of trust: Outstanding loans on the property.
Tax records: Current and delinquent property taxes (Ada County Treasurer).
Court records: Judgments, lis pendens, bankruptcy filings.
Easements and restrictions: Right-of-way, utility easements, HOA covenants.
Mechanic’s liens: Claims from contractors for unpaid work.
All documents are recorded with the Ada County Recorder at fees set by Idaho Code § 31-3205 ($15 for deeds, $45 for mortgages).
How Long Does a Title Search Take?
A standard residential search in Boise takes 3 to 5 business days. Complex properties with extensive history may take 1 to 2 weeks. The title company issues a preliminary title report (commitment to insure) listing all findings.
How Much Does It Cost?
In most transactions, the title search cost is included in the escrow/title fee — not a separate line item. Ada County escrow rates are $3.00 to $3.50 per $1,000 per Idaho DOI 2025 Filed Rates, covering the search, preliminary report, and policy issuance.
Standalone title searches (for research or pre-offer due diligence): $150 to $400 depending on complexity.
Can I Do My Own Title Search?
You can search Ada County records online or in person at the Recorder’s office. However, professional title examiners have access to indexed title plant databases, understand what to look for, and catch issues that casual searchers miss. For a property purchase, always use a professional search.
What Happens When Issues Are Found?
Common resolutions: paying off liens at closing, obtaining mortgage releases, correcting errors through corrective deeds, resolving boundary disputes, and clearing judgment liens. The title company lists all issues in the preliminary report with requirements for clearing them before closing.
Fact-checked by TitleThrive Editorial
Sources & Citations
- Idaho Department of Insurance — 2025 Filed Short Term Escrow Rates, Ada County
- Idaho Code § 31-3205 — County Recording Fees
- Ada County Recorder — Recording Services
Rates and fees referenced in this article are based on data filed with the applicable state department of insurance. Filed rates are subject to change. This content is for educational purposes and does not constitute a title insurance quote, legal advice, or financial advice. Contact a licensed title company for current rates specific to your transaction. Learn about our editorial standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Boise property records kept?
Property records for Boise are maintained by the Ada County Recorder. Deeds, mortgages, liens, and other documents are filed there. Recording fees are $15 for deeds and $45 for mortgages per Idaho Code § 31-3205.
How much does a title search cost in Boise?
As part of a purchase transaction, the cost is included in the escrow fee ($3.00 to $3.50 per $1,000 in Ada County per Idaho DOI filed rates). Standalone searches for research purposes run $150 to $400.
How long does a title search take in Ada County?
A standard residential title search takes 3 to 5 business days. Complex properties may take 1 to 2 weeks. The title company issues a preliminary title report once complete.
