To handle a land certificate when purchasing a second-hand home in the United States, ensure the deed is clear, review title insurance, and complete proper recording. Verify the seller’s ownership, check for liens, and consult a title company or attorney to confirm legal transferability before finalizing the purchase.

This process is critical because unclear land titles can lead to legal disputes, financial losses, or property loss. According to the American Land Title Association (ALTA), 99% of U.S. residential purchases utilize title insurance, which covers costs for resolving title issues. In 2022, the average title insurance premium was approximately 0.5% of the home’s purchase price, reflecting the high risk of undetected title defects. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reports that 3.5% of real estate transactions involve title disputes, often due to unrecorded liens or incorrect ownership claims. Proper verification minimizes these risks and ensures a smooth transaction. Data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) further shows that 20% of failed closings in 2021 were linked to title problems, underscoring the need for meticulous due diligence. Engaging professionals and thorough title searches reduce exposure to such issues, protecting both parties’ investments.