What might be a primary consequence of an encumbrance on property title?

An encumbrance on a property title primarily serves to restrict the owner's ability to sell or use the property. Encumbrances can take various forms, such as mortgages, easements, or liens, which may impose obligations or limitations on the property. For instance, a mortgage creates a financial claim against the property that must be settled before it can be sold, often making it more complex for the owner to transfer ownership. Similarly, an easement could limit how the property can be used, affecting the owner's control over it.

While some might think that an encumbrance could enhance a property's value due to associated benefits, such as access easements, this does not generally apply in a broad sense. Encumbrances typically introduce complexities that the titleholder must navigate, and this complexity can hinder both the sale and the use of the property. As such, the presence of an encumbrance is primarily felt as a limitation rather than an enhancement. The other options suggest positive outcomes or changes that do not accurately reflect the typical impact of encumbrances.