How Can I Find Out Who Owns a Commercial Property?
Finding out who owns a commercial property might seem daunting, but it's achievable using several methods. The process often involves piecing together information from various sources, and the complexity can vary depending on the location of the property. This guide outlines several strategies to help you uncover the owner's information.
1. Utilizing Online Property Records:
This is often the quickest and easiest method. Most counties and municipalities maintain online databases of property records. These databases usually contain information like the owner's name, address, and the property's assessed value.
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County Assessor's Website: Start by searching the website of the county assessor's office where the commercial property is located. These websites typically have a search function allowing you to input the property address or tax parcel number (often found on tax bills or property maps).
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County Recorder's Website: County recorders maintain official records of property deeds and ownership transfers. Their websites may also offer searchable databases. This is particularly useful for verifying the current owner if the assessor's website is outdated.
2. Using Online Property Search Engines:
Several websites specialize in compiling property information from various sources. These engines can sometimes provide additional details not found on county websites.
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Proprietary Services: Companies like LexisNexis and CoreLogic offer comprehensive property information services, but they often require subscriptions. These are valuable resources for extensive research or regular property data needs.
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Free Online Resources: While less comprehensive, free resources like Zillow or Realtor.com sometimes list commercial property owners. Be aware that the information provided by these free services might not always be entirely accurate or up-to-date.
3. Checking Public Records at the County Courthouse:
If your online searches are unsuccessful, visiting the county courthouse is your next step. The records may be available in paper format, and courthouse staff can assist you in navigating the records. This option requires more time and effort but can provide access to the most complete and current information.
- Be Prepared: Before visiting the courthouse, gather as much information about the property as possible, such as the address, legal description, and tax parcel number. This will significantly streamline your search.
4. Hiring a Professional Title Search Company:
For a guaranteed accurate and comprehensive ownership search, consider engaging a title search company. These professionals specialize in locating and verifying property ownership information. While this option incurs a cost, it ensures reliable and up-to-date results, especially important for significant financial transactions or legal matters involving the property.
What if the Owner's Name is a Business Entity?
If the listed owner is a business entity (LLC, corporation, etc.), you'll need to conduct further research to uncover the individuals behind the entity. You can typically find this information by checking the state's Secretary of State website or the relevant business registration database. This often includes the names and contact details of registered agents or officers.
Why is it Important to Verify Ownership?
Knowing the property owner is crucial for various reasons:
- Due Diligence: Before any business transaction or investment, verifying the property owner is a vital part of due diligence.
- Legal Matters: If you're involved in a legal dispute concerning the property, accurate ownership information is essential.
- Marketing/Sales: For marketing or sales purposes, knowing the property owner allows for direct communication and targeted outreach.
Finding the owner of a commercial property requires diligence and persistence. By using a combination of the methods described above, you should successfully identify the correct owner. Remember to always respect privacy laws and ensure you're using the obtained information responsibly and ethically.
