10/29/2026
🏡💜 ASK TOM & LINDA THURSDAY!
TODAY'S QUESTION:
WHAT IS AN ABSTRACT?
When selling a home, one of the first questions that may come up is: “Do you have the abstract?”
An abstract is a collection of documents that shows the history of ownership and legal activity connected to a property. It may include past deeds, mortgages, easements, liens, and other recorded information.
In Iowa, an abstract can help provide important details about a property’s title history. If you’re selling a home, especially an inherited property or one that has been in your family for many years, locating the abstract can be an important step.
🏠 WHY DOES THE ABSTRACT MATTER?
The abstract helps the title company or attorney review the property’s history and prepare for the sale. It can help identify questions that may need to be resolved before closing.
If you can’t find your abstract, don’t panic. There may be ways to locate it or update the property records. The best next step is to contact a title company, real estate attorney, or experienced local homebuyer for guidance.
At DM HOMEBUYERS, Thomas and Linda help Central Iowa homeowners understand the steps involved in selling a property, including inherited homes, estate properties, and houses that need repairs.
💬 YOUR TURN!
Did you know what an abstract was, or do you have questions about selling your home?
Drop your question in the comments below, or send us a private message if you’d rather discuss your situation confidentially.
We're local, approachable, and happy to talk!
💜 DM HOMEBUYERS
Local. Trusted. Here for You.
🌐 DMHomebuyers.com
A division of Purple Diamond Properties, LLC.
We are local homebuyers, not REALTORS®.
🏡💜 WHAT IS AN ABSTRACT?
If you’re selling a home in Iowa, you may hear someone ask, “Do you have the abstract?”
An abstract is a collection of documents that shows the history of a property. It can include previous deeds, mortgages, easements, liens, and other recorded information connected to the home.
The abstract helps the title company or attorney review the property’s ownership history and identify anything that may need to be addressed before closing.
This can be especially important when selling an inherited home, an estate property, or a house that has been in the family for many years.
If you can’t find the abstract, don’t worry. That doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t sell the property. A title company or real estate attorney can help determine what steps may be needed to locate or update the records.
At DM HOMEBUYERS, we help homeowners understand their options and navigate the selling process with less confusion and stress. Sometimes selling directly to us is the right solution. Other times, a traditional sale or another option may make more sense.
The important thing is to understand your choices before making a decision.
Have questions about an abstract or selling your home? Send Tom and Linda a message. We’re happy to help point you in the right direction.
💜 DM HOMEBUYERS
Local. Trusted. Here for You.
🌐 DMHomebuyers.com
A division of Purple Diamond Properties, LLC.
We are local homebuyers, not REALTORS®.
Want to sell a house fast for Cash in Des Moines? We will buy your property AS-IS with no contingencies. Selling your house is easy with us.