A property tax search is the process of looking up information about the property taxes associated with a specific piece of real estate. Depending on the location of the property, an online property tax search can be conducted where an individual, or a title company, can search a property tax database. Here are a few common reasons someone might perform a property tax search:
- Buying Real Estate: Before purchasing a home, buyers (and their agents) want to know what taxes are due on property.
- Refinancing or Selling: Lenders and title companies pull a property history report to confirm the property’s financial standing.
- Researching Investment Properties: Investors look up the real estate tax payment history to understand potential costs and risks.
- Inheriting or Gifting Property: Heirs or recipients may check for unpaid property taxes to avoid unexpected liabilities.
- Appealing Your Tax Assessment: If you think your property taxes are too high, a property assessment report can give you supporting data to challenge the assessment.
What Information Is Included in a Real Estate Tax Report
A Real Estate Tax Report, or Tax Only Search, provides key details such as:
1. Property Information
- Owner’s name
- Property address
- Parcel or tax ID number
- Legal description of the property
2. Assessed Value Details
- Land value
- Improvement (building) value
- Total assessed value
- Appraised value (if available)
3. Tax Bill / Real Estate Tax Statement Summary
- Annual property tax amount
- Breakdown of taxes (county, city, school district, etc.)
- Tax rate (millage rate)
4. Tax Payment Status
- Paid/unpaid taxes
- Delinquent taxes
- Outstanding balances or penalties
- Due dates and payment history
5. Tax Exemptions & Credits
- Homestead exemption
- Senior, veteran, or disability exemptions
- Other local or state tax relief programs
6. Special Assessments
- Fees for local improvements like:
- Sidewalks
- Sewer lines
- Street lighting
7. Tax Lien Information (if applicable)
- If taxes are unpaid, the report might show whether there’s a lien filed against the property.
8. Tax Roll Data for Taxing Authorities
- Names and contacts for all relevant taxing bodies, like:
- County tax assessor
- Municipal/City treasurer
- School board finance office
What Is a Property Tax Certificate and How to Get It
A Property Tax Certificate is an official document issued by a local government agency—typically a county treasurer or tax collector—that confirms the status of property taxes on a specific piece of real estate. While the tax data may be available in the online tax records, a tax certification is an official record provided by a local government agency.
To obtain a Property Tax Certificate:
- Contact the County Treasurer or Tax Collector’s Office where the property is located.
- Many counties allow you to:
- Request online via the official website
- Apply in person at the local office
- Call or email to request it
You’ll typically need:
- Property address
- Parcel or Tax ID number
- Sometimes a fee is required
Legal Use Cases: When a Tax Record Report Is Essential
A Tax Record Report is commonly needed in the following situations:
- Real Estate Closings: Title companies often require both a property tax search and a property title search to verify there are no unpaid taxes or outstanding liens before a sale.
- Refinancing: Lenders want to ensure no tax liabilities.
- Buying at Tax Sales: To understand what you're getting into.
- Legal Disputes or Inheritance Cases: Shows whether taxes are current.
- Tax Deed Applications: In some states, you need a tax certificate before applying for a tax deed.
Get Your Certified Property Tax Report Now
Order a property tax search or a certified property tax report from ProTitleUSA by emailing us at info@protitleusa.com or calling us at 888-878-8081. Please specify if a tax certificate is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a tax certificate and a property tax search?
While both a tax certificate and a property tax search deal with the tax status of a property, they serve different purposes and are used in different situations. A tax search is an informal real estate tax lookup that shows the property’s tax history, payment status, assessed value, and taxing entities. A tax certificate is an official government document confirming whether taxes have been paid.
Is a tax report the same as a title report?
No, a tax report is not the same as a title report. While a title report will provide the tax status, it will also include a search of deeds, mortgages, judgments and liens. A tax report is strictly a search on the property taxes, only.
Can I see unpaid taxes for a property?
This depends on the location of the property. Some counties have an online database where you can look up a property to view its tax status. On the other hand, some counties do not publicize tax records.
How accurate are online property tax records?
Online property tax records are generally accurate, especially when accessed directly from official county or city websites. These records are usually maintained by the tax assessor, treasurer, or recorder’s office, and are regularly updated. It is important to note that when taxes are delinquent, not all online tax records will show the total amount due which includes interest and penalties.
