Sale and Lease Back
A situation in which the grantor in a deed to a parcel of property sells it and retains possession by simultaneously leasing it from the grantee.

Search
A careful examination of the public records in an effort to find all recorded instruments relating to a particular chain of title.

Squatter
One who settles upon unoccupied land without legal claim or authority. See Adverse Possession.

Subordination Agreement
An agreement by which one encumbrance (for example, a mortgage) is made subject to another encumbrance (for example, a mortgage) is made subject to another encumbrance (perhaps a lease). To "subordinate" is to "make subject to," or to make of lower priority.

Surface Rights
Rights to enter upon and use the surface of a parcel of land, usually in connection with an oil and gas lease or other mineral lease. They may be "implied" by the language of the lease (no explicit reservation or exception of the surface rights) or "explicitly" set forth.

Survey
The measurement by a surveyor of real property which delineates the boundaries of a parcel of land. An ALTA survey additionally delineates the exact location of all improvements, encroachments, easements and other matters affecting the title to the property in question. A title insurance company may require a survey whenever the company is requested to issue an ALTA Extended Coverage Policy.