3.4 Title and Closing in Missouri
Key Takeaways
- Missouri is a title insurance state where title companies search and insure title
- Closings in Missouri are typically handled by title companies or attorneys
- Missouri uses both warranty deeds and quitclaim deeds for property transfers
- Recording with the county recorder gives constructive notice of ownership
- Prorations at closing divide expenses between buyer and seller
Last updated: January 2026
Missouri follows title insurance practices common in many states, with closings typically handled by title companies or attorneys.
Title Insurance
Types of Title Policies
| Policy Type | Protects | Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Owner's policy | Buyer/owner | Defects in seller's title |
| Lender's policy | Mortgage lender | Lender's security interest |
What Title Insurance Covers
| Covered | Not Covered |
|---|---|
| Forged documents | Known defects not disclosed |
| Recording errors | Zoning violations |
| Undisclosed heirs | Building code violations |
| Prior liens | Environmental issues |
| Fraud | Survey matters (unless extended) |
Title Search Process
- Examine public records
- Identify liens and encumbrances
- Review chain of title
- Issue title commitment
- Clear exceptions before closing
- Issue title policy after closing
Types of Deeds
Warranty Deed
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Best for buyer | Provides most protection |
| Covenants | Seller guarantees title |
| Use | Most residential sales |
Special Warranty Deed
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Limited warranty | Only for seller's ownership period |
| Use | Commercial, foreclosures |
| Protection | Less than general warranty |
Quitclaim Deed
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| No warranty | Transfers only what seller has |
| Use | Family transfers, clearing title |
| Protection | None |
Missouri Closing Process
Who Handles Closings
In Missouri, closings are typically handled by:
| Entity | Role |
|---|---|
| Title companies | Most common, search and insure |
| Attorneys | Review documents, legal advice |
| Escrow companies | Hold funds and documents |
Closing Documents
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Deed | Transfers ownership |
| Settlement statement | Itemizes costs |
| Loan documents | Mortgage, note (if financing) |
| Affidavits | Various certifications |
| Title policy | Insurance commitment |
Recording
Purpose of Recording
Recording with the county recorder provides:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Constructive notice | World is on notice |
| Priority | Earlier recording has priority |
| Chain of title | Creates ownership history |
| Public record | Anyone can search |
Recording Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Original document | Signed and notarized |
| Recording fee | Paid to county |
| Proper form | Meet county standards |
Prorations at Closing
Items Typically Prorated
| Item | How Prorated |
|---|---|
| Property taxes | Day of closing |
| HOA dues | Monthly prorata |
| Insurance | If assumed |
| Rent | If tenant occupied |
| Utilities | Final readings |
Proration Methods
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| 360-day year | 30-day months (common) |
| 365-day year | Actual days |
| Day of closing | Usually seller's day |
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Test Your Knowledge
Which type of deed provides the greatest protection for a buyer in Missouri?
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B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
What is the primary purpose of recording a deed in Missouri?
A
B
C
D