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Patricia is a real estate licensee in Minnesota. Her client, a buyer, wants to purchase a property and asks Patricia to explain the difference between abstract and Torrens title systems. Patricia correctly explains that a key procedural difference at closing is where the deed is filed. For abstract property, the deed is filed with the County Recorder. For Torrens property, where must the deed be presented to effectuate the transfer of title?

Correct Answer

D) The County Registrar of Titles (also called the Examiner of Titles), who will issue a new Certificate of Title

Under Minn. Stat. Ch. 508, transfers of Torrens-registered land are effectuated by presenting the deed to the County Registrar of Titles (sometimes called the Examiner of Titles). The Registrar reviews the deed, cancels the seller's Certificate of Title, and issues a new Certificate of Title in the buyer's name. This is the critical procedural distinction between Torrens and abstract land transfers in Minnesota.

Answer Options
A
The Minnesota Secretary of State's office, which maintains the statewide Torrens registry
B
The Minnesota Department of Commerce, Real Estate Division, which oversees all property title transfers
C
The County Assessor's office, which updates ownership records for both abstract and Torrens properties
D
The County Registrar of Titles (also called the Examiner of Titles), who will issue a new Certificate of Title

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

torrens_systemregistrar_of_titlesdeed_filingabstract_vs_torrensminn_stat_ch_508

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