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Guides / United States

Deeds

County recorder or title company can confirm liens; probate or trust deed transfers follow state recording rules

Some steps differ by region inside the country.

Where

The county recorder or register of deeds for the county where the property sits. Most now have searchable online records.

How

Search the county recorder's online records by their name to find every property recorded in it. Read the most recent deed to see exactly how title is held, since that determines what happens on death. Check for any transfer on death deed, which several states allow and which bypasses probate. Search in every county and state where they may have owned property, including vacation and inherited land.

What to bring

The property address or parcel number A certified copy of the death certificate Letters testamentary for any transfer

This is practical information, not legal, medical, or financial advice.

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