Search MICHIGAN MI. PROPERTY Records for DEED, LIEN AND TITLE SEARCH

  • February 19, 2014
  • Posted by: admin
  • Categories: Lien And Title Search, Michigan, Property Title Search, Public Property Records, Real Estate, Title Companies, Title Reports
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The Complete Guide to Searching Michigan Property Records: Deeds, Liens, Titles & More

Are you trying to find information about a property in Michigan? Whether you’re a homebuyer, real estate professional, or simply researching your own property’s history, knowing how to access and search Michigan property records is an essential skill. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about accessing deed records, title information, liens, and more across all 83 Michigan counties.

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Table of Contents

  • Understanding Michigan Property Records
  • County-Level Property Search Methods
  • Types of Michigan Real Estate Documents
  • Essential Property Information Resources
  • Property Record Search Tips for Michigan
  • FAQs About Michigan Property Records

Understanding Michigan Property Records

What Are Property Records and Why They Matter

Property records in Michigan are official documents that track the ownership history, financial obligations, and legal status of real estate. These records serve multiple critical purposes:

  • Establishing legal ownership of property
  • Revealing liens, mortgages, and financial claims against a property
  • Documenting boundary lines and property dimensions
  • Providing information about zoning, permits, and land use
  • Verifying tax payment status and assessment values

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Who Maintains Property Records in Michigan

In Michigan, property records are primarily maintained at the county level by Register of Deeds offices. Unlike some states with centralized systems, Michigan’s 83 counties each maintain their own property record databases, though many follow similar organizational structures.

According to the Michigan Association of Registers of Deeds, these county officials are responsible for recording, indexing, and preserving all land records within their jurisdiction, ensuring the integrity of Michigan’s property ownership system.

County-Level Property Search Methods

Online Search Options for Michigan Property Records

Most Michigan counties now offer digital access to property records, though the availability of historical documents varies by location. Common online search options include:

County Register of Deeds Websites

Nearly all Michigan counties maintain official websites with searchable property record databases. For example:

These platforms typically allow searches by:

  • Property address
  • Owner name (current or previous)
  • Parcel identification number
  • Document type or recording date

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BS&A Online Property Search System

Many Michigan counties utilize BS&A Online for property assessment and tax information. This platform provides:

  • Property tax information
  • Assessment values
  • Owner information
  • Property characteristic details
  • Some recorded document links

While some counties offer free BS&A access for basic information, others charge fees for detailed reports or document copies.

Michigan Land Bank Fast Track Authority

For properties that have undergone tax foreclosure, the Michigan Land Bank Fast Track Authority maintains databases of available properties and their status. This resource is particularly valuable for:

  • Investors seeking distressed properties
  • Community developers
  • Adjacent property owners
  • Researchers tracking neighborhood trends

In-Person Property Record Research Methods

For comprehensive property research, especially involving older records that may not be digitized, in-person visits remain essential:

County Register of Deeds Office Visits

Each county maintains a physical Register of Deeds office where staff can assist with document searches. When visiting in person:

  • Bring specific property information (address, parcel ID, owner name)
  • Expect to pay copy fees (typically $1-5 per page)
  • Allow time for research, especially for complex title chains
  • Consider calling ahead to verify office hours and procedures

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County Treasurer’s Office Research

For tax-related property information, county treasurer offices maintain:

  • Current and delinquent tax records
  • Tax foreclosure information
  • Special assessment details
  • Payment history records

The Michigan Association of County Treasurers provides links to individual county treasurer websites for contact information and online resources.

Types of Michigan Real Estate Documents

Property Deeds and Ownership Transfers

Property deeds constitute the foundation of real estate ownership in Michigan, documenting the legal transfer of property from seller (grantor) to buyer (grantee).

Common Michigan Deed Types

  • Warranty Deed: The most protective deed type, guaranteeing clear title and defending against claims
  • Quitclaim Deed: Transfers whatever interest the grantor has without warranties
  • Lady Bird Deed (Enhanced Life Estate Deed): Allows property to transfer upon death without probate
  • Sheriff’s Deed: Issued following mortgage foreclosure sales
  • Covenant Deed: Similar to a warranty deed but with limited warranties

According to the Michigan Legislature’s Property Transfer Legislation, all property transfers must be properly documented and recorded to establish legal ownership.

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Mortgage and Financing Documents

Michigan property records contain various financing-related documents that reveal financial obligations attached to properties:

Essential Mortgage Records

  • Mortgage/Deed of Trust: Creates a security interest in property
  • Mortgage Discharge/Satisfaction: Confirms complete repayment of a mortgage
  • Mortgage Assignment: Documents transfer between lending institutions
  • Mortgage Modification: Records changes to original loan terms
  • Construction Liens: Secure payment for improvement projects

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau provides guidance on understanding mortgage documents and their significance in property transactions.

Property Maps, Surveys and Boundaries

Accurate property boundaries are essential for avoiding disputes and understanding exactly what land is owned:

Mapping and Survey Documents

  • Plat Maps: Official drawings showing property subdivisions
  • Land Surveys: Professional measurements of property boundaries
  • ALTA/NSPS Survey: Detailed surveys meeting national standards
  • Condominium Plans: Precise layouts for condominium developments
  • Easement Records: Document access rights across properties

The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs oversees professional surveyors and maintains standards for property surveys in the state.

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Liens and Encumbrances Affecting Michigan Properties

Various claims against property can impact ownership rights and transfer ability:

Common Property Liens in Michigan

  • Tax Liens: Filed by government entities for unpaid property taxes
  • Mechanic’s Liens: Filed by contractors for unpaid construction work
  • Judgment Liens: Resulting from court judgments
  • Child Support Liens: Enforcing child support obligations
  • Federal Tax Liens: IRS claims for unpaid federal taxes
  • State Tax Liens: Michigan Department of Treasury claims

The Michigan State Bar Association offers resources on understanding the legal implications of various property liens and how they can be resolved.

Title and Chain of Ownership Records

Title records document the historical ownership of a property and identify potential claims:

Critical Title Documents

  • Title Insurance Policies: Protect against ownership defects
  • Chain of Title Reports: Historical record of all ownership transfers
  • Title Abstracts: Summaries of recorded documents affecting ownership
  • Title Search Reports: Detailed examinations of property records
  • Affidavits of Title: Sworn statements about property ownership status

The American Land Title Association provides consumer resources explaining the importance of clean title and title insurance protection.

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Land Use and Zoning Documentation

How property can be used is governed by various regulatory records:

Land Use Records in Michigan

  • Zoning Records: Municipal regulations on property use
  • Building Permits: Authorizations for construction or renovation
  • Variances and Conditional Uses: Exceptions to standard zoning rules
  • Environmental Records: Information on contamination or remediation
  • Wetland Designations: Protections for environmentally sensitive areas

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy maintains environmental records that may affect property use, particularly regarding wetlands, floodplains, and contaminated sites.

Special Property Designations in Michigan

Michigan offers several special property designations that affect taxation and use:

Special Status Property Records

  • Historic Property Designations: For culturally significant properties
  • Principal Residence Exemption: For owner-occupied primary homes
  • Agricultural Land Classification: For qualifying farm properties
  • Renaissance Zone Properties: Areas with special tax incentives
  • Brownfield Redevelopment Sites: Former industrial sites with cleanup incentives

The Michigan State Historic Preservation Office provides information on historic designation processes and the benefits for qualifying properties.

Essential Property Information Resources

What Information You’ll Need for Effective Searches

Gathering key details before beginning your search will streamline the process:

Property Search Essentials

  • Complete property address with ZIP code
  • Current owner’s full legal name
  • Parcel identification number (most reliable search method)
  • Approximate date of recent transactions
  • Legal description (if available)
  • Previous owner names (for historical research)

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County-Specific Property Record Resources

Each Michigan county maintains its own records system, though many follow similar patterns:

Major County Resources

The Michigan Association of Counties provides links to all 83 county websites where specific property record resources can be located.

Property Record Search Tips for Michigan

Understanding Record Fees and Access Restrictions

Michigan property record access varies by county in terms of costs and restrictions:

Fee Structures

  • Document search fees (typically $0-15 per search)
  • Document copy fees ($1-5 per page)
  • Certification fees for official copies ($5-20 per document)
  • Subscription options for frequent researchers ($50-500+ annually)

Some counties offer limited free searches while others require payment for even basic information. Commercial title companies often maintain private subscription accounts for frequent searches.

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Managing Michigan’s Complex Record System

Navigating Michigan’s county-based record system requires understanding its unique characteristics:

System Navigation Strategies

  • Begin searches at the county level rather than statewide
  • Recognize that record availability varies widely between counties
  • Understand that older records may only exist in physical form
  • Be prepared to search multiple databases for complete information
  • Consider professional assistance for complex historical searches

According to the Michigan Land Title Association, property records in Michigan can be particularly complex due to the state’s long settlement history and county-based recording system.

FAQs About Michigan Property Records

How far back do Michigan property records go?

Michigan property records generally date back to the early 1800s, when the state was first surveyed and settled. However, digital availability typically only covers the past 20-40 years in most counties. The oldest records are usually maintained on microfilm or in bound books at county offices.

Are Michigan property records public information?

Yes, most Michigan property records are public information under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act. Anyone can access deed records, mortgage information, tax data, and most other property documents. However, some personal information may be redacted for privacy protection.

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How do I find out who owns a property in Michigan?

To determine property ownership in Michigan:

  1. Identify the county where the property is located
  2. Search the county’s online property records using the address
  3. Or contact the county Register of Deeds with the property address
  4. Use the parcel number for the most accurate search results
  5. Request a copy of the most recent deed showing current ownership

Can I search Michigan property records for free?

Many Michigan counties offer limited free online property record searches, particularly for basic ownership and tax information. However, comprehensive searches or document copies typically involve fees. Libraries and county offices often provide free on-site access to their record systems.

How do I obtain copies of property records in Michigan?

To obtain official copies of Michigan property records:

  1. Identify the specific documents needed
  2. Contact the appropriate county Register of Deeds
  3. Request copies by mail, online, or in person (varies by county)
  4. Pay the required copy fees ($1-5 per page typically)
  5. For certified copies, request certification and pay additional fees

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This comprehensive guide to Michigan property records is brought to you by US Title Records. For professional assistance with property record searches nationwide, trust our expert team to deliver accurate, timely information for all your real estate research needs.

Last Updated: April 2025