---
title: "How to Get Real Estate Records | Property Docs Guide"
description: "Learn how to obtain property deeds, titles, and real estate records. Step-by-step guide covering county recorder searches, fees, and title searches."
lang: en
json-ld:
---

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[Home](/)[Resources](/resources)How to Get Real Estate Records 

Document Guide 

# How to Get Real Estate Records

Access property deeds, titles, liens, and ownership records from any county. Learn how to search recorder's offices and order certified copies.

10 min read 

County records 

Nationwide 

## Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to obtain real estate records from any county.

1

### Identify the Records You Need

Real estate records encompass many document types:

Property Ownership Records:

• Deeds (warranty, quitclaim, special warranty)

• Title documents and abstracts

• Property transfer records

• Ownership history chains

Encumbrance Records:

• Mortgages and deeds of trust

• Liens (tax, mechanic's, judgment)

• Easements and rights of way

• Covenants and restrictions

Other Property Records:

• Plat maps and surveys

• Zoning and land use records

• Tax assessment records

• Building permits and inspections

Knowing the specific document type helps locate the right office.

2

### Locate the Correct Recording Office

Real estate records are maintained at the county level:

Primary Recording Offices:

• County Recorder's Office (most states)

• Register of Deeds (some states)

• County Clerk's Office (some jurisdictions)

• Land Records Office

Other Relevant Offices:

• Tax Assessor (property valuations, tax records)

• Building Department (permits, inspections)

• Planning/Zoning (land use, zoning letters)

• Surveyor's Office (plat maps)

Information You'll Need:

• Property address

• Parcel number or APN (Assessor's Parcel Number)

• Legal description (if known)

• Owner name(s)

• Approximate date of transaction

3

### Search Online Records

Many counties offer online access to property records:

County Recorder Websites:

• Free index searches (document listings)

• Document images may require fee

• Search by name, address, or parcel number

• Date range filtering

Third-Party Databases:

• Title company plant access (industry use)

• Data aggregators (PropertyShark, DataTree)

• Real estate platforms with public records

What Online Searches Show:

• Recording date and document number

• Document type (deed, mortgage, lien)

• Parties to the transaction

• Often document images (PDF)

Note: Online records may not go back as far as physical records.

4

### Request Copies from the Recorder

Methods to obtain official copies:

Online Ordering:

• Available in many counties

• Pay by credit card

• Delivered electronically or by mail

In-Person Requests:

• Visit county recorder's office

• Use public access terminals to search

• Request copies at the counter

• Same-day service usually available

Mail Requests:

• Complete county's request form

• Include document number or recording info

• Enclose payment (check or money order)

• Allow 1-3 weeks for processing

Specify Certified vs. Uncertified:

• Certified copies bear official seal

• Required for official purposes

• Higher fee than plain copies

5

### Understand Fees and Processing

Real estate record fees vary by county:

Typical Fee Ranges:

• Basic copies: $1-$5 per page

• Certified copies: $5-$25 per document

• Search fees: $5-$25 per name

• Plat maps: $5-$20 per page

Additional Costs:

• Postage for mail requests

• Rush processing (where available)

• Electronic delivery fees

Processing Times:

• Counter service: Same day

• Online orders: 1-5 business days

• Mail requests: 1-3 weeks

• Archived records: May take longer

Some counties offer subscription access for frequent users.

6

### Order a Professional Title Search

For comprehensive property history, consider a title search:

Types of Title Searches:

• Current owner search (basic ownership)

• Two-owner search (recent history)

• Full title search (complete chain)

• Update search (after initial search)

What a Title Search Includes:

• Ownership chain verification

• All recorded liens and encumbrances

• Easements and restrictions

• Tax status and assessments

• Judgments against owners

When to Order a Title Search:

• Real estate purchases

• Refinancing

• Lien investigations

• Estate settlement

• Due diligence for investments

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How far back do real estate records go?

Recording offices maintain records since the county's establishment—sometimes 100+ years. Older records may be on microfilm or in archives. Most counties have digitized records from the 1980s forward, with older records available on request.

### Can I find out what someone paid for a property?

In most states, yes. The deed often shows the consideration (price) paid. Some states are 'non-disclosure' states where sale prices aren't recorded on deeds. In those cases, check tax assessor records which may show sale prices.

### What's the difference between a deed and a title?

A deed is a physical document that transfers ownership. Title refers to the legal right of ownership itself. Deeds are recorded documents; title is a concept verified through title searches and protected by title insurance.

### How do I find out if there are liens on a property?

Search the grantor/grantee index at the recorder's office for all documents recorded against the property address or owner name. A professional title search or lien search provides comprehensive lien discovery and is recommended for transactions.

## Need Real Estate Records Retrieved?

We retrieve deeds, titles, and property records from any county nationwide. Fast turnaround with certified copy options.

[Real Estate Record Services](/services/real-estate-records)[Call 833-725-5800](tel:833-725-5800)

**Disclaimer:** This guide is for informational purposes only. Recording procedures and fees vary by county. Contact the specific county recorder for current requirements.

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