Santa Cruz County CA. California PROPERTY RECORDS – Lien and title search – Deed Copy

  • November 22, 2018
  • Posted by: admin
  • Categories: Foreclosure, Lien And Title Search, Property Records, Property Records Search, Property Title Search, Public Property Records, Real Estate, Recorder of deeds, Title Companies, Title Reports
No Comments

How to Access Santa Cruz County California Property Records and Deeds, Lien and Title Search

BEGIN PROPERTY RECORDS SEARCH HERE

Santa Cruz County, California provides multiple ways to access property records, deeds, liens, and conduct title searches. Whether you’re a real estate professional, property owner, or researcher, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the available resources and official county links.

Santa Cruz County Recorder’s Office – Primary Source for Deeds and Property Documents

The Santa Cruz County Recorder’s Office plays a crucial role in maintaining and safeguarding official records, specifically those related to property and vital documents. Property records in Santa Cruz County, CA, are under the purview of the County Recorder. The office archives property documents like deeds, mortgages, liens, and maps.

Official Link: https://recorder.santacruzcountyca.gov/

Most of these records are stored on microfilm and in physical books, while some are digitized and accessible online, indexed by document number, year, document type, and owner’s name. The Recorder’s Office maintains records for all real property transactions within Santa Cruz County.

Santa Cruz County Assessor’s Office – Property Values and Tax Information

The Santa Cruz County Assessor’s Office provides property assessment information, including assessed values, property tax details, and parcel numbers essential for property research.

Official Links:

Santa Cruz County property records bring forth a median home value of $964,200.00, a median rent pegged at $2,245.00, and a median household income of $109,778.00. Regarding median property tax, the county collects at a rate of 0.66% based on the property assessment.

Santa Cruz County Tax Collector – Tax Bills and Payment Information

For property tax information, liens related to unpaid taxes, and payment history, the Santa Cruz County Tax Collector’s office maintains comprehensive records.

Official Links:

The Tax Collector’s office handles all property tax collection and can provide information about tax liens, payment histories, and outstanding obligations on properties.

Online Property Record Search Options

Several online platforms provide access to Santa Cruz County property records:

NETR Online – Comprehensive Public Records: https://publicrecords.netronline.com/state/CA/county/santa_cruz

This platform provides access to Santa Cruz Assessor records, Treasurer/Tax Collector information, and mapping services.

Santa Cruz County GIS and Mapping: Additional resources include Santa Cruz County GIS Mapping and the official Grantor/Grantee Index.

How to Access Property Records and Deeds

People who want to access these records can visit the office of the County Recorder or send a request by mail. They also have the option to use the County Recorder Web Access system for a convenient means of retrieving property documents.

Access Methods:

  1. In-Person Visits: Visit the physical offices during regular business hours
  2. Mail Requests: Submit written requests with specific property information
  3. Online Search: Use the county’s web-based search systems
  4. Phone Inquiries: Contact offices directly for assistance

Fees for Santa Cruz County Property Records

The fees for these records in Santa Cruz County include $1 for conformed copies with labels and standard documents (8½ x 11) and $3 for certification under seal. Copies from microfilm cost $100 per roll. Map copies also have a fee of $5 for the first page, and each additional page costs $2.

Recording Fees: To record the first page of a standard sized (8.5 x 11) deed, the fee is $14.00. Each additional page is $3.00. First page of all titles associated with the Real Estate Fraud Fee Standard page size (8 x 11)-$17.00.

Types of Property Documents Available

Santa Cruz County maintains extensive records including:

Deed Types:

  • Grant Deeds
  • Quitclaim Deeds
  • Warranty Deeds
  • Transfer on Death Deeds
  • Interspousal Transfer Deeds

Lien and Encumbrance Records:

  • Mechanics Liens
  • Tax Liens
  • Abstracts of Judgment
  • Deeds of Trust
  • Mortgage Documents

Other Property Documents:

  • Easements
  • Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs)
  • Property surveys and maps
  • Notice of Completion documents

Conducting Lien Searches in Santa Cruz County

To conduct a comprehensive lien search, check multiple sources:

  1. County Recorder’s Office – For recorded liens, mortgages, and judgments
  2. Tax Collector’s Office – For property tax liens and assessments
  3. Federal and State Tax Liens – May require additional searches
  4. Superior Court Records – For judgment liens and litigation

Title Search Process and Resources

A complete title search in Santa Cruz County should include:

Step 1: Obtain the Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN) from the Assessor’s Office Step 2: Search the Grantor/Grantee Index at the Recorder’s Office Step 3: Review all recorded documents affecting the property Step 4: Check for liens, encumbrances, and judgments Step 5: Verify current ownership and property taxes

Santa Cruz County Public Records Portal

Main County Public Records Page: https://www.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/Living/PublicRecords.aspx

Santa Cruz County also offers a mobile app called “My Santa Cruz County” available in app stores for convenient access to various county services and records.

Important Tips for Property Record Research

Document Requirements: Use white paper measuring 8.5 x 11 inches to avoid penalty fees when recording documents. The first page should have a return address space on the top left that is 2.5 down and 3.5 across, and allow a blank space of 2.5 inches down 5 inches across for the recording stamp.

Research Best Practices:

  • Always verify information with multiple sources
  • Check both current and historical records
  • Confirm property legal descriptions match assessor records
  • Review all recorded documents chronologically
  • Consult with qualified professionals for complex title issues

Professional Services and Alternative Resources

While county records provide official documentation, consider these additional resources:

  • Title Companies – For comprehensive title insurance and searches
  • Real Estate Attorneys – For complex legal property matters
  • Certified Abstractors – For detailed title research services
  • Survey Companies – For boundary and encroachment issues

Contact Information for Santa Cruz County Offices

Recorder’s Office:

Assessor’s Office:

Tax Collector:

Santa Cruz County’s comprehensive property record system provides excellent access to deeds, liens, and title information through both online and in-person services. By utilizing the official county resources and understanding the available search methods, you can efficiently conduct thorough property research and title searches in Santa Cruz County, California.