A Beginner’s Guide to Land Records Search: Understanding Public Records

Pro tip: If one source looks incomplete, check another—counties update systems at different speeds.

Start here: Property records search by address

What Are Public Property Records?

Public property records are official documents linked to real estate, managed by government agencies. These records offer extensive insights into a property’s history, ownership, and financial responsibilities. Being publicly accessible, they serve multiple functions such as conducting title searches, facilitating property transactions, and clarifying local property taxes.

What Information Is Found in Public Property Records?

Public property records generally contain the following information:

Ownership

This part reveals the current owners and may include historical ownership details. It lists the name(s) of the present owner(s) and, if available, previous owners.

Deeds

Deeds are official documents that record the transfer of property ownership. They provide essential details like property descriptions, names of the buyer and seller, and the transfer date.

Taxes

Tax documentation includes records of property taxes owed and paid, assessed values, and tax rates through the years, helping to illustrate a property’s tax history.

Mortgages and Liens

This section outlines any active mortgages and liens against the property. Mortgages indicate borrowed funds from a lender, while liens signify claims due to unpaid debts.

Sales History

Sales records document the history of property transactions, showing sale dates, transaction amounts, and involved parties.

Where Do Public Property Records Originate?

Public property records are created and stored by various government bodies, including:

• Assessor: Assesses property values for tax purposes.
• Recorder: Maintains documentation for property transactions, including deeds and mortgages.
• Clerk: May keep records related to court matters affecting property.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Provides mapping and spatial data that clarifies property locations and boundaries.

How to Search Public Property Records

Step-by-Step Guide: Searching by Address

1. Identify the local authority: Find the office responsible for property records in your area.
2. Visit their website: Many have online resources for conducting property searches.
3. Locate the property search feature: Look for options labeled “Property Records” or “Property Search.”
4. Input the property address: Enter the full address you want to investigate.
5. Review the results: Go through the search results and select the pertinent property to access its records.

Step-by-Step Guide: Searching by Parcel/APN

1. Same as above: Start by identifying the local government office for property records.
2. Access their website: Navigate to their online search utility.
3. Find the parcel search feature: Look for terms like “Parcel Number Search” or “APN Search.”
4. Input the Parcel/APN: Enter the specific APN assigned to the property, which can be found on tax documents.
5. Examine the results: Click on the appropriate link to access detailed information about the property.

How to Understand Common Fields in Property Records

Interpreting property records is easy when you know the typical fields:

• Parcel Number: A unique identifier for each property, often known as an APN.
• Legal Description: A thorough description of property boundaries and characteristics.
• Owner of Record: The current legal owner’s name according to the records.
• Sale History: Records past sales, including dates and prices.
• Property Tax Information: Displays assessed value, tax rates, and payment history.

Common Errors in Land Records Search

Beginners often make these common mistakes when searching land records:

• Incorrect details: Ensure correct spelling and accuracy in the address or APN during your search.
• Neglecting online resources: Many documents are now available digitally, so check online sources.
• Not verifying sources: Cross-check data against official government databases for reliability.
• Ignoring updates: Property records frequently update; revisit for the latest information.
• Failing to cross-reference: Use different sources to validate information for completeness and accuracy.

FAQs

1. What distinguishes a deed from a title?

A deed is a legal document transferring property ownership, while a title signifies the legal rights to own or use that property.

2. Can I access property records online?

Yes, many local governments offer online access to property records via their websites.

3. Are there costs involved in obtaining property records?

While many records are free, some may charge for copies or certified documents.

4. How frequently are property records updated?

Property records are updated with each transaction, such as a sale, mortgage, or lien.

5. What should I do if I spot incorrect information in property records?

If you find inaccuracies, contact the relevant recorder’s office to inquire about correction procedures.

Conclusion

Mastering the process of searching public property records is essential for anyone interested in real estate, whether for buying, selling, or gaining information. This guide has detailed key concepts, types of available information, and effective searching methods. By understanding common mistakes and knowing what to look for, you can navigate land records confidently and use the information wisely to make informed decisions.

Put this into action

• Use the county’s GIS map to confirm the parcel.
• Confirm grantee/grantor fields on the latest transfer.

Run a lookup: Search public property records