North Carolina Property & Deed Records

North Carolina real estate records are maintained by the Register of Deeds in each county. The state uses deeds of trust to secure loans, with trustee foreclosure procedures governed by statute. County tax collectors handle delinquent taxes and may sell properties through tax foreclosure sales.

Where to Search

• Register of Deeds: Use the county’s online database to search deeds, deeds of trust, plats and other documents by name or parcel description. Many registers offer free document images.
• GIS/Tax Administration: County GIS portals and tax administration sites provide parcel searches showing ownership, assessed value and tax payment status.
• Clerk of Superior Court: Foreclosure filings and special proceedings are filed with the clerk; you can review notices of sale and foreclosure deeds.

Steps to Locate a Deed

1. Identify the county where the property is located.
2. Visit the Register of Deeds website and access the online records search.
3. Search by grantor/grantee, book/page or parcel identification number.
4. Review the deed image to verify the parties and legal description.
5. Order a certified copy if needed for recording or title purposes.

North Carolina Tax Foreclosures

North Carolina does not sell tax lien certificates. Instead, counties foreclose on delinquent properties and sell them at public auction. These tax foreclosure sales are conducted by the county attorney or a trustee and typically require an upset bid process, where higher bids can be submitted for a short period after the sale.

Check county websites for foreclosure sale notices. Research the property thoroughly and understand any liens, zoning issues or occupancy before bidding.