Colorado Property & Deed Records

In Colorado, property documents are recorded by the County Clerk and Recorder. The clerk maintains deeds, deeds of trust, covenants and plats. County assessors provide parcel information and values. Colorado counties hold annual tax lien auctions where investors can purchase liens on delinquent properties.

Where to Search

• Clerk & Recorder: Search recorded documents by reception number, book/page, name or legal description. Many counties have online document search portals with images.
• County Assessor: Look up the parcel number, owner name, assessed value, tax area and property characteristics.
• Treasurer/Tax Lien Auction: Counties hold annual tax lien sales, usually in November. Lists of tax liens and registration details are published on the treasurer’s website.

Steps to Locate a Deed

1. Obtain the parcel identification number (schedule number) from the assessor.
2. Use the clerk & recorder’s search portal to find recorded deeds and deeds of trust.
3. Review the document image and record the reception number and recording date.
4. Order a certified copy if necessary.

Colorado Tax Lien Auctions

Colorado sells tax lien certificates. Investors bid down the interest rate they are willing to accept; the bidder who accepts the lowest rate wins the certificate. If the property owner does not redeem the tax lien within three years, the investor can apply for a treasurer’s deed. Note that Colorado does not have tax deed sales—only tax lien certificates.

Register for the auction through the county treasurer’s website, and research each property for liens, environmental concerns and value before bidding.