When searching for your dream home, sometimes you may simply walk by a home that would be perfect for your family. Or, maybe you're an investor driving for dollars in target neighborhoods. When you find a property with deferred maintenance or that appears undervalued, the next step is finding out who owns the property. Read on to learn key strategies for how to find the owner of a property.
8 Ways to Find Out Who Owns a Property
Finding out who owns a property depends on the property type. You can try various angles to determine who owns a property, from asking the neighbors or knocking on the door to speaking to a real estate attorney. Here are the main ways to find out who owns a property.
Inquire with the Residents or Neighbors
The easiest way to find out who owns a property is to ask the property’s residents or the neighbors. You can ask if you see someone in the street. You could also knock on the front door or leave a note with your name, phone number and/or email address.
Search Public Records
Public records, such as property tax records or land registry offices, can provide information on property ownership. These records are often available online. Alternatively, you can access public records at local government offices or libraries. You can also search for government-owned properties for sale here.
Use Online Property Search Websites
Websites like Zillow or Realtor.com allow users to search for property ownership information by entering the address or location of the property. Not all properties have ownership information, but if you search the property address, various databases may offer insight into property ownership and could provide a starting point to contact the owner.
Contact the County Assessor's Office
The county assessor's office is responsible for assessing property values and maintaining property ownership records. Calling or emailing the county assessor's office can be a simple way to verify property ownership information you've found through an online search or by asking residents.
Get in Touch with the County Recorder
Property information is public record, so the county recorder should be able to confirm who owns the property in question as well as its ownership history.
The county recorder maintains a wide range of important information, including birth and death records, deeds and other property ownership documents. If the county assessor's office cannot verify the property ownership, you can contact the county recorder to confirm property ownership.
Hire a Title Search Company
Title search companies specialize in researching property ownership and can help uncover information about the current owner. While title searches are generally done as part of the process of closing a home loan, you could also use a title search to learn the owner of a home.
Performing a title search can also turn up information regarding liens, easements or other issues related to the property title. A title search generally costs $75 to $200 or more, depending on the area.
Reach Out to a Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents often have access to multiple listing services (MLS) that contain information about properties and their owners. Even if the property isn't listed for sale, a real estate agent may be able to help you confirm property ownership. If the property is listed for sale or the owner is willing to sell, a real estate agent can help walk you through the home-buying process.
Consult a Real Estate Attorney
A real estate attorney might not possess the required records, but they might offer suggestions or insights on locating a property owner. If the other options don't work, you can always hire a real estate attorney to help you find the necessary information for the property ownership.
Confirming Property Ownership
You can locate the owner's contact information if you find a beautiful property for your family or a new investment opportunity, whether it's a house, an apartment or land. You can ask the neighbors or residents, search public records or contact local government offices for information. When you're ready to move ahead, learn how to make an offer on a house, learn more about real estate investing and find some of the best mortgage lenders online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find the owner of a property if it is not for sale?
Yes, you can find the owner of a property if it’s not for sale. You could search public records, contact the county assessor or county recorder or perform a title search.
What should I do if the property is owned by a corporation or trust?
If a corporation or trust owns a property, you can contact the official contact on public record. In the case of a corporation, this information is registered with the Secretary of State. For a trust, you will need to contact any listed point of contact.
What should I do if I believe the property owner's information is incorrect or outdated?
If you believe the property owner’s information is incorrect, you can contact the county assessor’s office or the county recorder. You could also search the public records to confirm the property owner’s information.
About Alison Plaut
Alison Plaut is a personal finance and investing writer with a sustainable MBA, passionate about helping people learn more about wealth building and responsible debt for financial freedom. She has more than 17 years of writing experience, focused on real estate and mortgages, business, personal finance, and investing. Her work has been published in The Motley Fool, MoneyLion, and she regularly contributes to Benzinga.