How to Search Michigan Property Records for Deeds, Liens, and Titles

To search Michigan property records, you’ll need to access county-specific resources since property records in Michigan are maintained at the county level. Here’s a step-by-step guide: BEGIN PROPERTY RECORDS SEARCH HERE

General Process

  1. Identify the county where the property is located
  2. Visit the county Register of Deeds office (in person or online)
  3. Search using property information (address, parcel number, owner name)

Detailed Steps

Online Search Methods

  1. County Register of Deeds websites
    • Most Michigan counties have online property record search portals
    • Search by owner name, property address, or parcel ID
    • Records typically include deeds, mortgages, liens, and title documents
  2. Michigan Land Bank Fast Track Authority (for tax-foreclosed properties)
  3. BS&A Online
    • Many Michigan counties use this system: www.bsaonline.com
    • Provides property tax and assessment information
    • Some counties offer free searches, others charge a fee

In-Person Search Methods

  1. Visit the County Register of Deeds office
    • Bring identifying information for the property
    • Staff can assist with searches and document retrieval
    • Copying fees typically apply
  2. County Treasurer’s office
    • For tax liens and property tax information

What You’ll Need

  • Property address
  • Parcel ID number (if available)
  • Owner’s name (current or previous)
  • Approximate date of transactions (helpful but not required)

Tips

  • Some records may not be digitized, especially older documents
  • Fees vary by county for copies of documents
  • Consider calling the specific county office before visiting to confirm their procedures
  • Some counties offer subscription services for frequent searchers

 

Types of Real Estate Records in Michigan

Michigan maintains various real estate records at county and state levels that document property ownership, transfers, and other related information. Here’s a comprehensive overview:

Michigan Property Deed

1. Property Deeds

Property deeds are the most fundamental real estate records in Michigan. They document the transfer of property ownership from one party (grantor) to another (grantee).

Common types include:

  • Warranty Deeds: Provide the greatest protection to buyers, guaranteeing the seller owns the property free of liens or encumbrances
  • Quitclaim Deeds: Transfer whatever interest the grantor may have in a property without warranties
  • Lady Bird Deeds: Allow property to transfer upon death without probate
  • Sheriff’s Deeds: Used in foreclosure sales
Michigan Mortgage Document

2. Mortgages and Related Documents

Mortgage records document loans secured by real property and include:

  • Mortgage/Deed of Trust: The legal document creating a lien on property
  • Mortgage Discharge/Satisfaction: Confirms a mortgage has been fully paid
  • Mortgage Assignments: Transfers of mortgage rights between lenders
  • Mortgage Modifications: Changes to original mortgage terms
Michigan Plat Map

3. Property Maps and Surveys

Michigan property boundaries and divisions are documented through:

  • Plat Maps: Official drawings showing the division of land into lots, blocks, streets
  • Land Surveys: Professional measurements of property boundaries
  • Parcel Maps: County-maintained maps showing property divisions
  • Condominium Plans: Detailed layouts of condominium developments
Michigan Tax Lien

4. Liens and Encumbrances

Various claims against property in Michigan include:

  • Tax Liens: Filed by government entities for unpaid property taxes
  • Mechanic’s Liens: Filed by contractors for unpaid construction work
  • Judgment Liens: Court judgments attached to property
  • Child Support Liens: Filed for unpaid child support obligations
  • Federal Tax Liens: IRS claims for unpaid federal taxes
Michigan Title Insurance Policy

5. Ownership and Title Records

Michigan maintains various records to track property ownership:

  • Title Insurance Policies: Protect against defects in title
  • Chain of Title: Historical record of all property ownership transfers
  • Title Abstracts: Summaries of all recorded documents affecting title
  • Title Search Reports: Detailed examinations of property records
  • Affidavits of Title: Sworn statements about property ownership

6. Land Use Records

Documents that control how property can be used:

  • Zoning Records: Municipal regulations on property use
  • Building Permits: Authorizations for construction or renovation
  • Variances and Conditional Uses: Special exceptions to zoning rules
  • Environmental Records: Information on contamination or hazards
  • Wetland Designations: Protection status for environmentally sensitive areas

7. Special Designations

Michigan has several special property designations:

  • Historic Property Records: For properties with historical significance
  • Agricultural Land Designations: For farm properties with tax benefits
  • Renaissance Zone Properties: Areas with special tax incentives
  • Principal Residence Exemption: For owner-occupied primary residences

Where to Find Michigan Real Estate Records

Most real estate records in Michigan are maintained at the county level by:

  • County Register of Deeds offices
  • County Treasurer’s offices (for tax records)
  • Local municipal offices (for zoning and permits)
  • State Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (for environmental records)

Many Michigan counties now offer online access to property records through their official websites, though some older records may only be available in person.

https://www.UsTitleRecords.com

MICHIGAN PROPERTY RECORDS – LIEN AND TITLE SEARCH