Get a Copy of Your Real Estate Deed

With the exception of a birth certificate, a real estate deed may be the most important document in your possession because it is the only thing that can prove that you own your home. Locating the original deed is also important before purchasing land from someone else. Whether you are curious about the history of a property, proving ownership of your own real estate, or just seeing how many times a title has changed hands, a number of research options are at your disposal.

Methods of Obtaining a Copy of Your Deed

The County Recorder or Register of Deeds

  • Almost all real estate deeds are recorded with the local government entity charged with storing public documents where the property is located.
  • This method usually requires a trip to the recorder's office and a nominal fee, usually just a few dollars.
  • Many recorders now have property records available online, allowing you to search and download documents from home.
  • You typically need the property address, parcel number, or the names of current or previous owners to conduct your search.
  • Information on how to contact your local recorder can be found by clicking here.

A Local Title Company or Abstractor

  • You can hire a title company or abstractor to go to the recorder's office for you.
  • Title professionals have expertise in searching property records and can often locate documents more efficiently.
  • Prices and turn around times vary for this service, but expect to pay between $50-$200 depending on your location and the complexity of your request.
  • If you used a title company when you purchased the property, they may be able to provide you with a copy for free or at a reduced cost. Contact them for more information.

Your Mortgage Lender

  • If you have a mortgage on your property, your lender will have received a copy of your deed during the loan process.
  • Contact your lender's customer service department to request a copy of your deed.
  • Some lenders provide access to these documents through their online customer portals.

The Attorney Who Handled Your Closing

  • If you used an attorney when you purchased your property, they should have a copy of your deed in their files.
  • Contact their office to request a copy, which they can usually provide quickly.
  • There may be a small fee for retrieving and copying the document.

Why You Might Need a Copy of Your Deed

  • To confirm property boundaries and legal description
  • For estate planning and preparing a will
  • When refinancing your mortgage
  • To verify property ownership during disputes
  • For tax purposes and proving deductions
  • When selling your property

Types of Deeds You Might Encounter

Depending on how you acquired your property, your deed may be one of several types:

  • Warranty Deed: Provides the most protection for the buyer, guaranteeing the seller has clear title to the property.
  • Special Warranty Deed: The seller guarantees against title defects that occurred during their ownership, but not before.
  • Quitclaim Deed: Transfers whatever interest the grantor has in the property without any warranties or guarantees.
  • Deed of Trust: Used in some states instead of mortgages, involving three parties: the borrower, the lender, and a trustee.

If you are looking for a blank real estate deed form to create a deed click here to visit our real estate deed forms page.

Helpful Resources
Get a Copy of Your Real Estate Deed