When title agents fail to check easements and restrictions, especially when issuing an owners policy, it certainly does diminish the value of the product.  The cost of researching these items is nominal in relation to the premium, especially when one considers the fact that, typically, two policies are sold based upon that one title search.  It never ceases to amaze methat the underwriters are so willing to cut corners on the most critical aspect of the product.

Your post is timely, Jeanine.  There is a blog, posted yesterday on the real estate website Active Rain, that addresses the very same subject.  Here is a link for those interested:

http://activerain.com/blogsview/670440/Beware-Title-Insurance-Lite