What is the minimum number of years for an unbroken chain of title to qualify under Ohio's Marketable Title Act?

The correct answer indicates that an unbroken chain of title must be established for a minimum of 40 years to qualify under Ohio's Marketable Title Act. This legislation was designed to simplify real estate transactions by providing a means to clear defects that may exist in the title of a property. By requiring a 40-year period, the law ensures that historical claims, such as those from previous owners or other potential encumbrances, are less likely to affect the current owner. Essentially, after this duration, the title is presumed free from certain defects, granting the property owner a degree of security and facilitating smoother exchanges in real estate. This length of time strikes a balance between protecting property rights and allowing for the modern practical needs of buyers and sellers in the market.