How To Find Out Who Owns a Property

Looking to find out who owns a property but don't know where to start? Maybe you're eyeing it to buy, need to reach the property owner for business, or are just plain curious. Good news! Property ownership information is easier to find than you think, and there's a good chance the information is available online for free.

In this article, we'll explain the most common ways to find property ownership, including how to access property records from county tax maps. These maps are public information, and are usually available online via easy to navigate parcel viewers. (I'll show you how to use our free lookup tool to find the right one). We'll also look at other public records, like tax bills and deed records, that can help confirm details or fill in the gaps. And if online searches fall short, you'll learn where to go in person, how to ask the right questions, and even a few creative ways to get the information you need.

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Kick Off with Free, Online Government Resources

Online Tax Maps / GIS Portal

Hands down, the very first thing I'd do is check if the jurisdiction offers tax maps online. Most do provide some level of information. This could be anything from a simple PDF of parcels that can be cross-referenced with assessor records, to the far more useful interactive parcel viewer. The latter usually includes a lot of property information. This may be property ownership, assessed property value, and even square footage of structures on the property.

It's worth noting, though, that not all jurisdictions display ownership information online. In some areas, privacy concerns limit what can be shown to the public. For example, parcel viewers in New Jersey do not show property ownership details because of Daniel's Law. This law protects certain individuals. If ownership information isn't available online, you may still be able to find it by visiting the local county offices in person. We'll go over that in the next section.

You can usually find these online real property records on city or county websites. These records are often found under pages related to the Assessor's Office or the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Department.

Register of Deeds or Recorder's Office

Even if online tax maps aren't available, you may still be able to find what you need through the city or county's website. If you know the address or parcel ID of the property, you can often perform a basic property search for land records. Depending on the area, you might find this search under the Assessor's Office, Recorder's Office, Register of Deeds, or County Clerk's Office. Take time to explore their site thoroughly, as real and personal property records aren't always in the most obvious place.

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If Online Falls Short: Go Visit or Ask Around

In Person at County Offices

It's a bit of a bummer when the local jurisdiction doesn't have tax maps or property records online, but don't give up just yet. County offices, like the Assessor's Office, Register of Deeds, or Recorder's Office, still maintain these real property records. Bring the address or parcel ID, and staff can usually pull up property ownership details for free or a small fee. If you're not sure which office to visit, call ahead and ask where they keep land records for the property you're researching.

Neighbors (Yes, Really!)

When all else fails, a friendly chat can work wonders. People who live nearby often know who owns the property you're curious about, especially in tight-knit neighborhoods. A quick knock on the door and a polite explanation of why you're asking might get you the name you need, or at least point you toward someone who has it. Keep it casual, respectful, and brief; most folks will appreciate your courtesy and might even enjoy sharing a little local knowledge.

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Getting Professional Help: Real Estate Agents and Title Companies

If free searches come up short, a local real estate agent or title company might have exactly what you need. They can access detailed property descriptions, sales history, and other records that aren't always online. Agents often know property owners personally or can find them quickly through the MLS. Title companies can do title searches to get the name of the buyer and seller from past sales, lien records, foreclosure records, and many other details. While you might not get a full report for free, many professionals will share basic details—especially if you're a potential client.

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Putting It All Together: How To Find The Owner of a Property

Tracking down property owners doesn't have to be complicated. Start with online tax maps (and take advantage of our parcel viewer lookup tool) to check parcel data, property tax records, and even deed records. If the records aren't available online, a quick trip to local offices can get you the same information in person. And if you still can't find what you're looking for, you now know which professional to reach out to. With a few clicks, a short drive, or a quick phone call, you can uncover the facts you need without breaking a sweat.