Local tip: In many counties, the GIS systems don’t match 1:1—so cross-checking is the secret sauce.
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OfficialPropertyRecords.org.
Overview of Property Records in Kings County, New York
Kings County, which includes Brooklyn, provides a rich set of property records accessible to the public. These records consist of details on property ownership, assessed values, tax information, and more. Knowing how to obtain these records is beneficial for prospective homebuyers, existing homeowners, and real estate professionals. You can access property records through a variety of local offices, each containing different types of information.
Types of Records Available
In Kings County, you can find the following property records:
- Deeds: Legal documents that transfer ownership between parties.
- Property Tax Records: Details about the assessed property values and tax payments.
- Parcel Maps: Graphical representations indicating property boundaries and dimensions.
- Building Permits: Records of any construction or modifications made to a property.
- Assessment Roll: A comprehensive list of properties in the area along with their assessed values.
Accessing Property Records by Address
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Utilize Online Resources
Before heading to any offices, it’s advisable to explore online databases first. Kings County offers several online resources for searching property records by address:
- Visit the Brooklyn borough website for information related to property records.
- Use the NYC Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications (DOITT) for Geographic Information Services (GIS).
2. Conduct an Address Search
To search by property address, follow these steps:
- Go to the property records search tool on the Brooklyn borough website.
- Enter the property address in the search field, ensuring it’s correctly formatted.
- Examine the search results, which will display various details about the property, such as ownership, assessment data, and property history.
3. Search by Parcel/APN
If you prefer to use a parcel number, also known as the Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN), follow these steps:
- Find the parcel number in your previous records or real estate documents.
- Return to the online property records search tool.
- Enter the parcel number into the appropriate field and click search.
- Review the results to uncover detailed information about that specific parcel.
Offices to Check for Property Records
If online searches do not provide you with the needed information, consider visiting the following local offices:
1. Assessor’s Office
The Assessor’s Office is in charge of valuing properties for tax assessment. Here you can find assessment records, tax maps, and other relevant details.
2. County Clerk / Recorder’s Office
The County Clerk’s Office keeps official public records, including deeds and mortgage data. This is the preferred office for ownership documentation.
3. Office of the City Register
The City Register holds records of property transactions and allows access to recorded documents such as deeds and liens.
4. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Office
The GIS Office offers mapping services that can help clarify property boundaries and land use, enhancing your understanding of a property’s size and location.
Common Issues in Kings County Property Record Searches
Although the search process is generally straightforward, various common challenges may arise:
1. Condo Units and Formatting
When searching for condominium properties, be sure to use the correct unit number and formatting. They might appear in records as ‘Unit #’, ‘Apartment #’, or similar formats. Including all specific details will yield more accurate search results.
2. Mailing vs. Situs Address
A frequent issue is confusing mailing addresses with situs (physical) addresses. Exercise caution when searching, as using the mailing address could lead to inaccurate results. If unsure, always use the physical address linked to the property.
3. Data Updates
Data updates can take time. If you’ve completed a recent transaction, ensure to check back periodically, as newly recorded data may take several days or weeks to become accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What information is required to access property records?
You generally need either the property address or the Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN).
2. How can I confirm that I have the correct address?
Use verification tools from the NYC Department of Finance or consult online mapping services for accuracy.
3. Are there fees for accessing property records?
While online access is typically free, there may be nominal fees for certified copies obtained at local offices.
4. What steps should I take if my property record has inaccuracies?
Contact the relevant office (either the Assessor’s Office or County Clerk) to resolve discrepancies in property records.
5. Is there a deadline for requesting records?
There is no deadline; property records are generally available indefinitely, although specific documents may have certain restrictions.
Conclusion
Accessing property records in Kings County, New York, can be a smooth process if you know where to look and how to proceed. Whether you are conducting a real estate inquiry, seeking to verify property details, or just interested in a specific property, the guidance provided through online databases and local offices will aid in your search. Be mindful of common issues to avoid mistakes, and don’t hesitate to contact local offices for assistance as needed. Accurate property records are crucial for making knowledgeable decisions about real estate, and Kings County has the resources to support your journey.
Explore related guides
- Property Owner Lookup (step-by-step)
- Public Property Records explained
- Property Value & Equity basics
- County / State Records guide