After buying your home, you need to have a copy of the deed for your records. Should you misplace your deed, you can request a copy from the County Clerk or Register of Deeds. Ownership of property is transferred by deed. The property deed, also called title deed, identifies the names of the new owners as well as the old owners of the property, contains the signature of the person transferring the property and has the property's legal description. A deed will let the new buyers know you have clear title to the property.
In Person
Locate the County Clerk or Register of Deeds in the county where the property is located. The County Clerk's office or Register of Deeds is the office where deed records are kept.
Provide the specifics on the property you need the deed for. You need the property address, year of purchase and, if available, property tax identification number. Find the property tax identification number on copies of your property tax you pay annually. If you don't have a copy of the property identification number, providing the lot, section or block can help. If you don't have all required information, office personnel should be able to help you prove ownership by accessing records or calling the appraisal office to verify your name is on the property records.
Perform search of property deed. Depending on your location, you can perform the search of property deed or personnel in the office will perform the search. Some counties require you t fill out a form to request a copy of your deed. After they locate it, you will receive it via mail. In other counties, the clerk or administrative personnel will search and provide you a copy of your deed while you wait. You may also have the option to use their computers and microfilm in the office to locate the deed yourself.
Pay required fee for deed copy. This fee will vary from county to county. You may also have to pay a higher fee for a certified copy of the property deed.
Online
Locate the website of County Clerk or Register of Deeds for the county your property is in. By conducting an internet search, you should be able to locate the website.
Enter the required information. The website will ask for information such as the property address, year of purchase, owner's name and possibly the property identification number. If you don't have a copy of the property identification number, providing the lot, section or block may be helpful. You may also be asked to identify yourself and provide a reason for requesting the deed. Complete remaining sections of website request form completely.
Pay fee for copy of deed. Some websites may accept payment by electronic check; otherwise, you will need to enter your credit card information for payment. Once payment is made, you should receive information on how long to expect before receiving a copy of your deed.
References
Writer Bio
Kaydence Small is a journalist who began writing professionally in 1996. She has written on military life, empowerment, travel, fitness, healthy lifestyles, frugal living and cooking. She is also an Army Family Team Building Master Trainer/Program Manager. She attended the University of Texas, Austin and received a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in performing arts.