How to Find Public Records on a Home

When conducting a home search, accessing public records is a crucial step. These records provide important information that can help you with your property evaluation and transaction process. This guide will help you understand how to access these public records and what kind of information you can expect to find.

Where to Find Public Records on a Home

One of the best places to start your search for public records on a home is the county property appraiser's office. Most modern county property appraiser offices now offer online search sections, allowing you to look up addresses or use a map-based search. Typically, these sites include links to tax information as well.

Another valuable resource is your local public library. Many public libraries have online databases that contain basic ownership and structural information, such as the square footage of living space, number of bedrooms, lot size, and sale prices. Additionally, there may be records of previous ownership.

Some online real estate sites also offer a visual aspect to their listings. You can often find pictures from the last time the home was listed, which can provide a more complete picture of the property.

What Kind of Information Can You Access?

Public records on a home typically include a range of detailed information. This information can be accessed free of charge at government offices or through online databases. The following details are commonly available:

Ownership and Structure: This includes the current owner's name, legal descriptions, and property boundaries. It may also include information on the property's structure, such as the square footage, number of bedrooms, and lot size. Financial Details: Public records often include tax assessments, sale prices, and any liens or encumbrances on the property. Historical Information: Previous owners, sale histories, and changes in ownership are also available in public records. This can provide a comprehensive overview of how the property has evolved over time. Court Records: If the property is involved in any legal disputes or has any outstanding judgments, these records will be available for view.

Additional Resources

In addition to the resources mentioned above, there are specialized real estate data providers that can offer more detailed and in-depth information. These services can be accessed through subscription, and the amount of information available often correlates with the cost. Some of the most popular providers include:

RP Data: RP Data, a well-known provider in this field, offers a wealth of information on properties and real estate markets. Zillow: Zillow is one of the leading real estate websites that offer comprehensive property details and market analytics. Propeny: Propeny provides detailed property reports that can be very useful for deeper property research.

It's important to note that while these resources can provide extensive information, some require a subscription or may come with a fee. Free resources like the county property appraiser's office and public libraries are a great place to start, but they may not offer the level of detail that more advanced users require.

Conclusion

Accessing public records on a home can provide you with a wealth of information that can be invaluable for making informed decisions. Whether you're buying a home, selling a property, or simply want to understand the history and current state of a property, the resources available online and through local government offices can help you navigate this process.