Found this interesting excerpt from the 'site:

"[The search] process usually requires that a trained individual, known as a Title Abstractor, search all courthouse land records relative to a particular piece of property on which a mortgage will be placed. This search involves a chronological listing of each and every owner, using the Grantor and Grantee indices, for the previous 50 - 75 year period. The search will reveal liens, judgments, mortgages, taxes, and any recorded item connected to the property.

Finally, a closing attorney or title agent will review this report and clear any necessary items affecting the title either prior to or at closing. This step will ensure that the lender has a clear and marketable title for it's security interest."

Maybe Mr. Stephen should amend his 'site to add:

"unless the underwriter in question has outsourced all its abstracting work offshore to some sweatshop in Crapistan!!"