Pro tip: If one source looks incomplete, check another—counties update systems at different speeds.
Start here: Property records search by address
OfficialPropertyRecords.org.
Understanding the Importance of Property Deeds in Record Searches
What Are Public Property Records?
Public property records are official documents that detail information about real estate properties. These records are essential for determining ownership, reviewing a property’s financial history, and evaluating its worth. They are open to the public, enabling potential buyers, sellers, and researchers to access vital information about any property.
What Information Is Found in Public Property Records?
Public property records include a variety of information, such as:
- Ownership Records: Information on current and previous property owners.
- Property Deeds: Legal documents detailing the transfer of ownership from one individual to another.
- Tax Records: Data regarding property taxes, including assessments and payment history.
- Mortgages and Liens: Information about any loans secured by the property or legal claims against it.
- Sales History: A record of past property transactions, including dates and prices.
Where Are Public Property Records Generated?
Public property records are produced and overseen by various governmental bodies:
- Assessor: Provides property assessment and tax information.
- Recorder/Clerk: In charge of documenting property deeds, mortgages, and legal documents.
- GIS (Geographic Information Systems): Offers spatial data for mapping property boundaries and features.
Steps to Search Public Property Records
Searching by Address
1. Visit your local government or county assessor’s website.
2. Find the property search or records search section.
3. Enter the property address in the search box.
4. Review the search results and select your property.
5. Access detailed records for owners, taxes, and more.
Searching by Parcel/APN (Assessor’s Parcel Number)
1. Go to the local government or county assessor’s website.
2. Navigate to the property search or records search tool.
3. Enter the parcel/APN in the search field.
4. Click search and locate your property in the results list.
5. View the record details for comprehensive property information.
How to Understand Common Fields
As you review public property records, you’ll see various fields. Here’s what to know:
- Property Owner: The name(s) of the current property owner(s).
- Legal Description: A formal description detailing the property boundaries and location.
- Document Type: Indicates whether the document is a deed, mortgage, or lien.
- Recording Date: The date the document was logged in the public records.
- Tax Assessments: Details about property tax assessments and upcoming payment deadlines.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Searching for property records can lead to errors. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Incorrect Address: Ensure the spelling and format of the address are accurate.
- Incorrect Parcel Number: Verify you are using the exact parcel/APN as recorded, including any dashes or separators.
- Ignoring Name Variations: Owners’ names may vary in records (e.g., initials, middle names), so check for different versions.
- Neglecting Updates: Property records are frequently updated; make sure to check for the latest documents.
- Assuming Full Completeness: Records may not include every detail; some may require further research.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are property records publicly accessible?
Yes, property records are public documents accessible to anyone, typically via local government websites.
2. How long are property records maintained?
Property records are usually kept indefinitely, preserving historical information about ownership and finances.
3. Can I get copies of property records?
Absolutely, copies can typically be requested from the recorder’s office or downloaded from online resources.
4. What if I can’t find my needed information?
If online searches are unproductive, consider visiting your local assessor’s or recorder’s office for help.
5. Is there a charge for accessing property records?
Accessing property records online is generally free, but obtaining certified copies might incur a small fee.
Conclusion
Property deeds and public records play a crucial role in real estate transactions. Familiarity with how to access, read, and utilize these records empowers you to make informed property ownership and investment decisions. Whether you’re a prospective buyer, seller, or researcher, mastering public property record searches is a vital skill that can facilitate successful real estate interactions.
What to do next
- Try searching by parcel/APN if the address doesn’t match.
- Check the most recent deed record.
Run a lookup: Search public property records