How to Find Out Who Owns a Property
If you’re curious about who owns a property, you’re not alone. Whether you want to verify ownership, buy land, or contact the owner, this step-by-step guide explains simple, reliable methods that anyone can use.
You’ll learn:
- Why finding the owner is important
- What details you’ll need
- Free and paid search methods
- What to do after you find the owner
Why Finding the Owner Matters
People look up property owners for many reasons:
- To confirm that the seller or landlord is the real owner
- To reach out about buying, renting, or leasing
- To check if taxes or legal disputes exist
- To research real estate investment opportunities
- To understand land boundaries or property history
Knowing the owner helps you avoid risk and make informed decisions.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Gather these details to make your search easier:
- Property address — include the full street name, city, and postal code
- Parcel or tax identification number, if available
- Lot or subdivision details for open land
- In Pakistan: province, district, tehsil, and Khewat number or survey number
Step-by-Step Methods to Find the Owner
Here’s how to locate ownership information, starting from the easiest options.
1. Check Local Tax Assessor or Property Appraiser
Most areas keep public property tax records.
- Visit your local tax assessor’s office or website.
- Enter the property’s address or parcel number.
- Review the owner’s name, assessed value, and tax history.
This is often the fastest and most affordable option.
2. Visit the County or City Recorder’s Office
The recorder’s office keeps official ownership records such as deeds and title transfers.
- Search the “official records” or “grantor/grantee index.”
- Look up the property by address or owner name.
- Request copies of documents if needed.
What to Do After Finding the Owner
Once you have the details:
- Confirm they match official land records.
- Review for unpaid taxes, liens, or disputes.
- Contact the owner respectfully if you plan to buy or rent.
- Consult a lawyer for any purchase or transfer to ensure the title is clear.
Final Thoughts
Finding who owns a property is simple once you know where to look. Start with local tax assessors or government websites, and move to title offices if needed.
