Ohio Property & Deed Records

In Ohio, property documents are recorded by the County Recorder. The recorder maintains deeds, mortgages, easements and other real estate instruments. County auditors track ownership and assessed values. Ohio is one of the few states that authorizes counties to sell tax lien certificates on delinquent properties, as well as conduct tax foreclosure auctions.

Where to Search

• County Recorder: Many Ohio counties offer online deed search portals. You can search by grantor/grantee, parcel number or legal description to view deeds and mortgages.
• County Auditor: Provides property search tools to look up owner information, assessed values, tax payment status and parcel maps.
• Treasurer/Tax Lien Sales: Counties may sell delinquent tax lien certificates to investors. Auction lists and instructions are posted on the treasurer’s or county website.

Steps to Locate a Deed

1. Find the parcel number using the auditor’s search.
2. Access the recorder’s online search and look up the deed by parcel number or party names.
3. Review the deed image and note the instrument number and recording date.
4. Obtain a certified copy if required for legal purposes.

Ohio Tax Lien Certificates

Several Ohio counties sell tax lien certificates to investors. The certificate gives the purchaser a lien on the property; the property owner has a redemption period to pay the taxes plus interest. If they fail to redeem, the investor can foreclose the lien and obtain a tax deed. Other counties foreclose on delinquent properties and sell them at sheriff’s sale.

Check county treasurer websites for sale schedules, registration and bidding procedures. Always investigate other liens, property condition and local regulations before bidding.