How to find a property owner

There are numerous places to search by address to find owner information across the web. We like to think there are good reasons to use PropertyProof over just scouring the internet, especially if you are investing or buying multiple properties. However, the county tax districts hold the key to your free owner search.

Free? Yes, go to your county's property tax records

So, where do you find your county's property tax assessor website. Unfortunately, there is not a single listing to quickly search across the US, but here is a good starting point:

  1. Search for county tax assessor office. For example, Austin, Texas residents could search the web for "travis county tax assessor" to search for the office.
  2. Once you've found the tax assessor office, then find a "search by address" or "search by map" functionality on the website to complete your property search.
  3. Enter the address and get your current owner information, property tax records, latest property tax bills, property tax payments, and much more.
  4. Next, find a site to look up people. Yellow Pages and White Pages will both help you with this
  5. Verify the owner's address and contact information
  6. Now, just rinse and repeat for multiple properties

Searching for property tax record details

The property tax records you find will include characteristics about the address and a significant amount of real estate data. You probably don't need all the information, but here are some key data points:

  • Type of property
  • Year of construction
  • Lot size
  • Legal location
  • Recent property tax assessment
  • Recent land value
  • Recent home value
  • City, State, Zip Code
  • School district

You will find a wealth of information about the piece of property. The real estate data provided by the county will give you an advantage as you start the buying process.

Comparing to home listing and MLS details

The property tax record and the for sale listing on the MLS may differ. Always check the source of the MLS details. Many owners will cite information about the home that differ from the public records on the tax assessor website.

As you get into the buying process, do your due diligence and confirm the information that you are given. For example, compare the listing lot size, bedroom count, HVAC, and square footage of the property. This will give you knowledge you need to walk and talk about the property.

 

Find property tax records instantly across the US with PropertyProof.com. No more scouring the internet. Simple, intuitive search with the property and owner information you need.