What is meant by a "cloud on title" in real estate?

A "cloud on title" refers to an unresolved issue or claim affecting the title of a property. This can encompass a variety of potential issues that may impair the owner's ability to transfer a clear title to a buyer or lender. For example, a cloud on title can arise from outstanding liens, disputes over property boundaries, or claims by heirs or ex-spouses that have not been resolved.

When a property has a cloud on its title, it introduces uncertainty regarding who has legal ownership, which can complicate sales, refinancing, or other transactions involving the property. Resolving a cloud on title is crucial for ensuring that the property can be sold or transferred without complications or legal challenges.

The other options do not accurately define the concept. An outstanding mortgage balance specifically refers to a financial obligation, a temporary lien describes a short-term encumbrance that does not necessarily indicate a defect in title, and a visual representation of property boundaries relates to surveying rather than issues affecting ownership rights. Thus, the correct understanding of a "cloud on title" is focused squarely on the unresolved claims or issues affecting property ownership rights.