What are the sources for title and lien searches
- May 4, 2020
- Posted by: admin
- Category: Real Estate Post
Comprehensive Guide to Title & Lien Search Sources: Beyond County Records
Understanding Property Lien Search Resources
When investigating potential property investments, especially those with known tax delinquencies, it’s essential to conduct thorough due diligence beyond basic county records. Our comprehensive reports at US Title Records combine data from multiple governmental and private sources to provide a complete ownership and encumbrance picture.
Government Sources for Property and Lien Information
Property liens specifically recorded against a property address are typically indexed at the county recorder’s office. However, these records may not tell the complete story. Judgment liens, including medical liens, aren’t always properly recorded or indexed by address, creating potential “hidden” encumbrances that county tax records won’t reveal.
Beyond Basic County Records: Additional Search Sources
For comprehensive property research, we investigate:
- City/county recorder offices for recorded documents
- State and federal court records for judgments
- Tax authority records at local, county, and state levels
- Special assessment districts and utility companies
- Medical lien registries when applicable
Medical Liens: A Hidden Concern
In your specific situation with tax-delinquent land, medical liens represent a legitimate concern. These encumbrances may not appear in standard courthouse searches but could later emerge as clouds on the title. Our Homebuyer’s Service specifically addresses these potential hidden encumbrances.
Professional Research vs. Self-Research Options
While many real estate investors calculate their risk tolerance and sometimes conduct their own research, we recommend professional assistance for complex situations. If budget is a concern, consider:
- Contacting a local title company for courtesy searches
- Consulting with a real estate attorney familiar with your specific jurisdiction
- Utilizing our targeted search services focused on your specific concerns
Best Practices for Safe Property Acquisition
Even with thorough preliminary research, we always recommend:
- Closing through a reputable title insurance company
- Obtaining title insurance policies to protect against undiscovered claims
- Working with local real estate professionals familiar with your market
Contact for Specialized Assistance
For more information about our comprehensive search services or to discuss your specific situation with tax-delinquent land and potential medical liens, please contact our client services team at US Title Records.