Finding out who owns a commercial property can seem daunting, but it's achievable through several methods. Whether you're a potential buyer, investor, or simply curious, this guide provides a comprehensive approach to uncovering ownership information. Knowing the owner allows you to connect directly, negotiate deals, or understand the property's history.
What Information Do I Need to Start?
Before beginning your search, you'll need the property's address. This is the most crucial piece of information. If you have the legal description (often found on tax documents), this will also be incredibly helpful in refining your search.
Methods to Identify Commercial Property Owners
Several avenues exist for determining commercial property ownership. Let's explore them:
1. County Assessor's Office or Tax Records:
This is often the most reliable method. County assessor's offices maintain detailed property records, including the owner's name and contact information. Many counties offer online databases accessible through their website. Simply search using the property address. These databases often contain details like the assessed value, tax history, and even property maps.
Pros: Highly reliable, often free or low-cost. Cons: Navigation of county websites can sometimes be challenging; information may not always be up-to-date.
2. State Government Websites:
Many states maintain central databases of property records. While often less detailed than county records, these can be helpful if your county's website is difficult to navigate or doesn't provide the information you need. A search on the state's government website using the property address may yield results.
Pros: Can offer a broader overview, potentially accessible when county resources fail. Cons: Information may be less detailed than county records; not all states offer comprehensive online access.
3. Commercial Real Estate Databases:
Companies like CoStar, LoopNet, and CommercialCafe compile vast amounts of commercial property data, often including ownership information. These databases typically require subscriptions, but offer in-depth information beyond basic ownership details. They can provide property financials, lease information, and market analysis.
Pros: Comprehensive data, advanced search functionalities. Cons: Often expensive subscription fees; accuracy can vary.
4. Title Companies:
Title companies are experts in property ownership verification. They perform title searches as part of real estate transactions. While they won't readily share this information unless involved in a transaction, they can be a valuable resource if you're considering purchasing the property.
Pros: Highly accurate, reliable information from experts in the field. Cons: Requires engaging their services (often with a fee), not suitable for casual inquiry.
5. Public Records Search Engines:
Several online search engines compile public records data, including property ownership. These websites might offer a more convenient interface compared to navigating individual county websites, but remember to verify information from official sources.
Pros: Convenient search interface, potentially free access. Cons: Data accuracy may vary, some services charge fees for detailed information.
What if the Owner Information is Incomplete or Outdated?
Sometimes, property records may be incomplete or outdated. In these cases, you may need to employ additional strategies:
- Contacting neighboring businesses: Neighboring businesses might have informal knowledge of the property owner.
- Reviewing corporate filings: If the property is owned by a company, reviewing corporate filings with the Secretary of State can reveal ownership structure.
- Hiring a real estate professional: Experienced brokers or commercial real estate agents have access to extensive databases and networks.
Important Considerations Regarding Privacy
Remember to be respectful of property owners' privacy. While accessing public records is legal, avoid contacting owners with unsolicited sales pitches or intrusive inquiries. Maintain professionalism and respect throughout your search.
By utilizing these methods strategically, you can effectively discover who owns a commercial property. Remember that patience and persistence are key, as the process may vary depending on the location and accessibility of public records.
