How to Find the Owner of a Real Estate Property
A clear, practical walkthrough for finding out who owns any property.
Austin Beverigde
Tennessee
, Goliath Teammate
Finding the owner of a real estate property can feel daunting, especially if you’re looking to connect for a sale, rental, or other inquiries. Whether you’re a potential buyer, a curious neighbor, or a real estate investor, understanding how to track down property ownership is crucial. Fortunately, there are several straightforward methods to help you uncover this information.
Quick Answer: To find the owner of a real estate property, start by checking your local property tax assessor's website, where ownership records are typically available. You can also visit your county recorder's office to access public records. If those options don't yield results, consider using online property search tools or hiring a title company for assistance.
Steps to Find the Property Owner
1. Use Online Property Records
Your first step should be to check online property records. Most counties have a tax assessor's website where you can search for property ownership by entering the address. For example, if you’re trying to find the owner of a house on Elm Street, simply type the address into the search bar. This can often yield the owner's name and mailing address.
2. Visit the County Recorder’s Office
If online searches don’t provide the information you need, visit your local county recorder’s office. Here, you can access public records that may include deeds, mortgages, and other documents that list the property owner. Bring the property address and any other relevant details to make your search easier.
3. Check Property Tax Records
Property tax records are another valuable resource. These records not only show who owns the property but also provide information on tax payments and assessments. You can usually find this information on your local government’s website or by visiting the tax assessor’s office.
4. Utilize Online Property Search Tools
There are several online tools and websites designed to help you find property owners. These platforms often aggregate data from public records, making it easier to search by address or parcel number. While some services are free, others may charge a fee for detailed reports.
5. Hire a Title Company or Real Estate Agent
If you’re still having trouble, consider hiring a title company or a real estate agent. These professionals have access to databases and resources that can help you find property ownership information quickly and accurately. This option may incur costs but can save you time and effort.
Costs Involved
The costs to find a property owner can vary widely:
Online searches through public records are typically free.
Visiting county offices may have nominal fees for printed records.
Online property search tools may charge a fee, ranging from $10 to $50.
Hiring a title company or real estate agent can cost between $100 and $500, depending on the complexity of your request.
Timeline for Finding Property Ownership
The timeline can vary based on the method you choose:
Online searches can yield immediate results.
Visiting county offices may take a few hours, depending on wait times.
Using online tools may provide results within minutes.
Hiring professionals may take a few days, depending on their workload.
Alternatives to Finding Property Owners
If traditional methods don’t work, consider these alternatives:
Networking with local real estate professionals who may have insights.
Posting inquiries on community forums or social media.
Using skip tracing services, which specialize in locating individuals.
Checklist for Finding Property Owners
Check local property tax assessor's website.
Visit the county recorder’s office for public records.
Review property tax records for ownership details.
Utilize online property search tools for additional data.
Consider hiring a title company or real estate agent if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
Not verifying the information you find online, as it may be outdated or incorrect.
Overlooking local laws regarding privacy, which may limit the information available.
Failing to check multiple sources, as property records can vary by county.
Assuming that all properties are listed in the same way; some may have unique identifiers.
Not considering the potential costs involved in hiring professionals when needed.
FAQs
What information do I need to find a property owner?
To find a property owner, you typically need the property address. Additional details like the parcel number or the owner's name can also be helpful, especially when searching through public records.
Can I find property ownership information for free?
Yes, many local government websites provide free access to property ownership records. However, some online tools may charge a fee for detailed reports.
How long does it take to find a property owner?
The time it takes can vary. Online searches can yield immediate results, while visiting county offices may take a few hours. Hiring professionals may take a few days.
What if the property owner is a corporation?
If the property is owned by a corporation, you can still find ownership information through the same public records. The corporation's name will be listed, and you may need to do additional research to identify the individuals behind it.
Is it legal to find out who owns a property?
Yes, property ownership records are public information, and it is legal to access this information. However, using it for unlawful purposes, such as harassment, is illegal.
