With a population of nearly 10.12 million, Michigan is the 10th-largest state by population and the 11th-largest by area. Lansing is the state’s capital, and Detroit is its largest city. Metro Detroit is one of the country’s most populous and largest metropolitan economies.
When buying a house or any real estate property, conducting a title search is essential. This search helps you check if there are any liens, unpaid taxes, or other encumbrances on the property. Whether you are a homeowner, buyer, or seller, understanding the property's ownership history can save you from unexpected legal or financial issues.
If you want to find out who owns a property or check for any liens or judgments against it, you will need to search in several places:
Assessor and Tax Collector: The local assessor’s office will provide information on the property’s assessed value and tax details. If the property taxes are delinquent, they will be transferred to the county tax collector's office.
Register of Deeds: This office keeps records of all documents affecting the property, such as deeds, mortgages, assignments, modifications, judgments, and liens. Performing a thorough check here will give you details on the property's ownership history.
The cost of a title search varies depending on the type of search and location. Here is a breakdown of typical title search costs in Michigan:
|
Type of Search |
Cost |
|---|---|
|
O&E Report (Residential) |
$95.95 |
|
Two Owner Search (Residential) |
$149.95 |
|
30-Year Search (Residential) |
$195.00 |
|
Title Update |
$50.00 |
|
Chain of Title Search |
$75.00 |
|
Commercial O&E Report |
$250.00 |
Liens and judgments are claims for unpaid debts. Some debts can even attach to the property. A judgment or lien is first filed in civil court. In order for the judgment or lien to affect real estate, it must then get recorded in the county recorder’s office. If the judgment doesn’t get recorded, then it will not affect the property.
Conducting a thorough property title search is crucial whether you are buying, selling, or simply interested in the ownership history of a property. By knowing where to search, how much it might cost, and when to hire a professional, you can make informed decisions and protect your investments.
Title searches in Michigan cover a wide range of counties, including:
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