Arkansas is known for its lush forests, scenic mountains, and more than 600,000 acres of lakes—earning it the nickname The Natural State.
But before you buy property in the state of natural beauty and southern charm, first thing’s first: understanding Arkansas property title searches.
What are the search requirements in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, as in all states, property title search requirements are in place to uncover any potential claims, liens, or ownership issues before a transaction is completed. For both residential and commercial properties, a standard title search typically covers 30 years or more to ensure a clear chain of title and identify any encumbrances that could impact the property’s marketability.
Here are some additional details that are helpful to know when conducting property title searches in Arkansas:
- State and federal tax liens: State tax liens are enforceable for 10 years. Federal tax liens are valid for 10 years and 30 days.
- Mechanics liens: Often filed by contractors or suppliers, mechanics liens have a 15-month enforceability period.
- UCC filings: Short for Uniform Commercial Code filing, these financing statements generally last for five years unless continued.
- Homeowners association (HOA) liens: HOA liens can impact a title for up to 10 years.
- Judgments: Civil judgments are effective for 10 years. Meanwhile, judgments in favor of the United States or the State of Arkansas carry a longer lifespan, remaining enforceable for up to 20 years.
- Estate tax: Estate tax is enforceable for up to 20 years.
Digging into every possible issue isn’t just due diligence—it’s a crucial step in shielding both buyers and lenders from costly surprises down the line.
Arkansas’ Distinctive Real Estate Market
Arkansas is not an attorney opinion state; instead, the commitment and final title policy must be issued by a Licensed Title Insurance Agency and signed by a Licensed Title Insurance Agent, with no attorney involvement required — consistent with Act 684 of 2007 and its accompanying regulations.
What You Should Know About Marriage Law in Arkansas
In divorce cases, residency and valid grounds — such as general indignities or 18 months of separation — must be established, which can delay or complicate the division of property if not properly documented.
On the inheritance side, Arkansas recognizes dower and curtesy rights, meaning a surviving spouse is entitled to a portion of the deceased’s estate, regardless of whether a will exists.
If there are no descendants, the spouse automatically receives half of both real estate and personal property. If there are descendants, the spouse retains a life estate in one-third of the real estate and inherits one-third of the personal property outright.
Probate and Recording Requirements in Arkansas
In Arkansas, probate is required for estates that are contested, have outstanding debts, or are valued over $100,000, though smaller estates may qualify for a simplified process after accounting for statutory deductions.
When it comes to recording, witnesses are not required on deeds or security instruments, and both Deeds of Trust and Mortgages are used — though only certain entities, such as licensed Arkansas attorneys or authorized banks, may legally serve as trustees under Arkansas Code § 18-50-102.
Common Issues in Arkansas Title Searches
Confusion can sometimes stem from vague language in deeds — particularly when the phrasing lacks a clear covenant to the grantee, such as “Grant, Bargain, and Sell,” which implies several key common law covenants of title.
Additionally, ambiguity around mineral rights can lead to legal disputes, because deeds that are silent on the matter are typically interpreted as conveying 100% of the mineral rights — even if the grantor doesn’t own them.
Set Yourself Up for Success in Arkansas Real Estate
Working through the intricacies of Arkansas title searches doesn’t have to feel like wandering through the Ozarks without a compass.
At Pippin Title, we make title search easy — whether you’re closing one deal or one hundred. Our platform combines smart search technology with a trusted network of local experts to deliver fast, accurate, commitment-ready reports.
Every order goes through a rigorous quality process, giving you the confidence to close on time, every time, without the usual back-and-forth. Track every order in real time through your custom portal,, so you always know exactly where things stand, from request to report.
Ready to move forward with confidence in the Grand Canyon State?
Contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I do a property title search in Arkansas?
A property title search in Arkansas involves reviewing public records to confirm the legal ownership of a property and uncover any claims, liens, or restrictions that could affect the sale. While anyone can technically search county records manually, the process can be time-consuming and complex.
At Pippin Title, we simplify this for you. Our team uses advanced search technology and trusted local searchers across Arkansas to ensure your title reports are fast, accurate, and ready for commitment — so you don’t have to dig through courthouse records yourself.
2. How far back does a title search go in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, a standard title search typically covers at least 30 years or more to ensure a clear chain of ownership. This process helps identify any potential issues like outstanding liens, judgments, or title defects that could impact your transaction.
Pippin’s search process meets these standards — and thanks to our network of experienced local searchers and quality control checks, you can move forward knowing your reports are thorough and reliable.
3. Is an attorney required for a property title search in Arkansas?
No, Arkansas is not an attorney opinion state. Instead, title commitments and final title policies must be issued by a Licensed Title Insurance Agency and signed by a Licensed Title Insurance Agent, as per Act 684 of 2007.
That’s where Pippin Title comes in. We provide commitment-ready reports without the need for attorney involvement, helping you stay compliant with Arkansas regulations while keeping the process smooth and efficient.
4. What liens or claims should I check for on Arkansas property titles?
When performing a title search in Arkansas, key things to check for include:
- State and federal tax liens (enforceable up to 10–20 years)
- Mechanic’s liens (15-month enforceability)
- HOA liens (up to 10 years)
- Civil judgments (10–20 years depending on the creditor)
- UCC filings (typically valid for 5 years unless continued)
- Unreleased mortgages or Deeds of Trust
Pippin’s searches are designed to catch all of these, so you have peace of mind knowing that potential roadblocks are flagged before they become deal breakers.
5. What are common issues found during an Arkansas title search?
Some of the most common issues we help identify include:
- Unreleased prior mortgages
- Tax liens and unpaid HOA dues
- Judgments against current or previous owners
- Errors in legal descriptions
- Unresolved claims around mineral rights
- Ambiguous or vague deed language (missing key covenants)
At Pippin Title, our quality control process ensures these issues are surfaced early — giving you time to resolve them before closing, not after.
