How to Sell A House with Title Issues in Des Moines

How to Sell a House with Title Issues in Iowa

Selling a house in Iowa can be challenging on its own—but when title issues are involved, it can quickly become complicated and frustrating. Title problems are one of the most common reasons real estate transactions get delayed or fall through altogether.

If you’re dealing with a house that has unresolved title issues, don’t worry—you’re not stuck. In fact, there are ways to resolve many of these problems and still sell your home successfully. At DSM Swift Home Buyers, we specialize in helping homeowners overcome these challenges and sell their houses fast—even with a “clouded” title.

What Is a Title Issue?

The title is the legal document that proves ownership of a property. A “clear title” is free of legal disputes or claims. But many homes in Iowa—especially older properties or inherited homes—have title issues that make selling them tricky without first clearing up those problems.

Common Title Issues in Iowa

Here are some of the most common title problems that can affect a home sale:

1. Unpaid Property Taxes or Liens

If you owe back taxes, city fines, or contractor bills, those debts may show up as liens and must be paid off before closing.

2. Missing or Deceased Heirs (Probate Issues)

In cases of inherited property, if the estate wasn’t properly probated or other heirs have claims, this can delay or block the sale.

3. Errors in Public Records

Clerical mistakes in deeds, surveys, or property descriptions can prevent clean title transfer.

4. Unknown or Unreleased Mortgages

Sometimes, an old mortgage or home equity loan remains on record even if it was paid off—this needs to be officially released.

5. Judgments or Bankruptcy

If the homeowner has a past bankruptcy or judgment against them, creditors may have a legal interest in the property.

6. Divorce or Disputes Between Owners

If multiple people are on the title and not all agree to the sale (e.g., in a divorce), legal resolution may be required.

7. Boundary or Survey Disputes

Unclear property lines or encroachments can create title issues that need to be resolved before closing.

8. Forgery or Fraud

In rare cases, fraudulent documents or identity theft can cloud title and require legal action to correct.

Contact us today to get your offer!

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Can You Still Sell a House with Title Issues?

Yes—but it takes the right buyer and the right approach. Most traditional buyers will walk away from a property with unresolved title issues because their lender requires a clean title for financing. But that’s where DSM Swift Home Buyers comes in.

How DSM Swift Home Buyers Can Help

We’re experienced in working with title-complicated properties in Iowa and have strong partnerships with local title companies and real estate attorneys to help identify and resolve these issues efficiently.

Here’s how we make it easier:

✅ We buy houses as-is—even with title problems
✅ We work with professionals to clear liens or resolve ownership disputes
✅ We pay cash, so there’s no bank or lender to delay the process
✅ We cover all closing costs and help with paperwork
✅ We give you a fair offer and help navigate the next steps

Even if the title problem can’t be fixed immediately, we’ll help guide you toward a solution. And if it’s not something we can personally resolve, we’ll connect you with a trusted resource who can.

Don’t Let a Title Issue Stop You from Selling

Title issues might feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to prevent you from selling your house in Iowa. With the right help, most problems can be resolved—some faster than you might think.

At DSM Swift Home Buyers, we’ve helped homeowners all over Des Moines and surrounding areas sell homes with complex title situations. If you need a quick, clear solution—or even just guidance—we’re here to help.

Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll review your situation, help identify the next steps, and give you a fair, no-obligation offer.