What you’ll get: Deeds, tax info, parcel data, and sometimes sales/transfer history—depending on the county.
Start here: Search county/state property records by address
OfficialPropertyRecords.org.
Exploring County Offices and Their Records
When looking for real estate records, it’s important to know which county offices keep different types of records. Here’s a simple guide to help you find your way:
Assessor’s Office
- What They Keep: Information about property values, tax records, and ownership details.
- Popular Searches: Status of property taxes and assessed values.
Recorder’s Office
- What They Keep: Deeds, mortgages, and other property-related documents.
- Popular Searches: Title history, liens, and ownership changes.
Clerk’s Office
- What They Keep: Official records, election information, and meeting minutes.
- Popular Searches: Legal documents related to properties, contracts, and ordinances.
GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Office
- What They Keep: Map data, zoning details, and aerial images.
- Popular Searches: Parcel boundaries, zoning classifications, and land usage.
Step-by-Step Guide to Searching
Finding the right records can be challenging, so it’s helpful to follow a structured approach.
Step 1: Find Your Parcel Number (APN)
Your search will start with the parcel number, or Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN), which is a unique identifier assigned by the Assessor’s Office.
Step 2: Visit County Office Websites
Begin by going to the relevant county office’s website. Many offices offer online databases for easy searching. Save these links for quick access later.
Step 3: Use County Search Tools
- For the Assessor’s Office: Look for a property search tool to enter the APN or property address.
- For the Recorder’s Office: Use their document search feature to find recorded documents based on property details.
- For the Clerk’s Office: Find databases that allow you to search legal and official records.
- For the GIS Office: Utilize interactive maps to visualize property boundaries and zoning areas.
Step 4: Narrow Down Your Search
Provide as much information as possible, such as the owner’s name, address, and property type, to refine your results.
Using APN and GIS Maps
Searching with APN
Leveraging the parcel number can greatly improve your search results. Make sure to verify the format: check that you have the correct number of digits and that you’re using the appropriate categories (e.g., residential, commercial).
Making Use of GIS Maps
GIS maps are excellent for visualizing property data. With them, you can:
- View boundary lines and neighboring properties.
- Find zoning and land use restrictions.
- Access historical aerial images for insights on land changes.
Explore the various layers available, and if possible, print or save important layers for your records.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
While searching for parcel records, you might face some common problems.
Formatting Problems
Records may not show correctly due to formatting issues. Always check:
- The APN is entered correctly, without extra spaces or characters.
- You are using the right county search tool for your area.
Condominium Records
Finding records for condominiums can be tricky, as they may have unique identifiers or specific association records. Check both property records and any homeowners’ association (HOA) documents.
Rural Properties
Properties on rural routes may use unique addressing systems. Ensure you have the accurate physical address, and consider looking at nearby properties to assist in your search.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do if I can’t locate my property records online?
Reach out to the relevant county office directly. They can offer assistance or clarify how to search.
2. How can I tell if records are current?
County offices typically show the last update date on their websites. If in doubt, contact them for confirmation.
3. Can I search multiple counties at once?
No, each county operates its own systems. You will need to search each county office separately.
4. Are some records restricted or confidential?
Yes, certain records, like those involving minors or specific legal matters, might be restricted. Check the specific county office policies for details.
5. How can I obtain certified copies of documents?
Contact the county office that holds the record. There is usually a small fee for certified copies.
Conclusion
Finding missing records in your GIS searches can be manageable with the right approach. By understanding the functions of various county offices, adhering to a structured search process, using GIS maps wisely, and being aware of common issues, you can effectively gather the information you need. If you encounter difficulties, don’t hesitate to reach out to county offices for help. With persistence and care, you’ll be well on your way to locating your property records successfully.
Troubleshooting
- Try abbreviations (St vs Street) and remove punctuation.
- Condo unit formatting can break searches.
- Use GIS maps to confirm the parcel boundaries.
Run a lookup: Property records search