Tax Search
A Property Tax Search investigates records maintained by county tax assessors, collectors, and municipal treasurers to determine current assessed valuations, tax payments, exemptions, and delinquent balances.
Common Transaction Uses
- Real estate closings and escrow settlement calculations
- Mortgage loan refinances and tax escrow impound setups
- Tax sale pre-bidding due diligence and tax lien certificate reviews
- Verifying municipal special assessments and utility district charges
Public Records & Filings Examined
- Current real property tax bill and payment status (paid, open, delinquent)
- Land, building, and total assessed valuation figures
- Tax exemptions on record (Homestead, Veteran, Senior, Agricultural)
- Prior-year delinquent taxes, penalties, interest, and administrative costs
- Special taxing district assessments (MUD, CID, SID, school levies)
- Tax sale certificates, pending tax deeds, or redemption expiration dates
Information Required to Request
- Complete property street address
- County and municipal taxing authority jurisdiction
- Assessor's Parcel Number (APN / PIN / Map-Block-Lot)
- Current property owner name of record
Examination Considerations
Property tax liens hold statutory super-priority over standard mortgage liens. Identifying delinquent balances and upcoming installment due dates is essential to prevent foreclosure by tax collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tax Search
Why do title companies require a property tax search before closing?
Property taxes are an automatic first lien on real property. If delinquent taxes remain unpaid at closing, the tax authority can initiate a tax foreclosure sale that can extinguish other interests.
What is a special assessment on real property?
A special assessment is an additional municipal levy for specific neighborhood infrastructure improvements such as sewer lines, sidewalks, or street paving.
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Order a Tax Search
Submit your order identifiers through our contact form. Our intake team confirms receipt and initiates registry examination promptly.