Purchasing a home is a significant life decision that comes with various considerations. Beyond the physical aspects of a property, understanding its history is crucial before sealing the deal.
In this guide to home buying, we'll explore why researching a house's history is essential and provide steps to search for the home's history and know important details to help you make an informed decision.
What Can a Home's History Tell You?
Finding the history of a home can be a bit of a rabbit hole. However, obtaining a home's history can reveal a wealth of information that goes beyond its aesthetic appeal. By delving into a property's past, you can uncover details that might influence your decision to buy as well as help ensure your homeownership journey remains stress free. Some key aspects to consider include:
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Previous Owners: Knowing who lived in the house before you can offer insights into its care and maintenance.
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Maintenance and Repairs: Understanding the property's maintenance history helps anticipate potential issues and plan for future repairs.
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Renovations and Additions: Discovering any modifications made to the house can influence your perception of its value and functionality.
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Permit Issues: Uncovering past permit violations or discrepancies can save you from potential legal and financial headaches down the road.
How to Research a Home's History
Look up the Summary Info on a Real Estate Website
Begin your research on popular real estate websites, which often provide a summary of a property's history. These platforms may offer details about previous sales, pricing changes, and basic information about the house. Some websites also list property details, including the assessor's parcel number, the year the house was built, and the tax ID number.
Visit Your County Recorder's Office
A visit to the county recorder's office, which is also called a county clerk's office, can yield in-depth information about the property. Public records, deeds, and liens are typically accessible here, offering a comprehensive overview of the house's history, ownership, deeds of trust, liens, and lien releases.
Look at the County Parcel Viewer
Many counties have online parcel viewers that allow you to access property information, including boundaries, tax assessments, and historical data. This digital resource can be a convenient way to gather preliminary information.
Order Copies of Property and Permit Records
To obtain detailed records, consider ordering copies of property and permit records from relevant authorities. These documents can provide a comprehensive understanding of a house's history, including any alterations or repairs made over the years.
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