Washington Property & Deed Records
Washington State records real estate documents with the County Auditor. The auditor maintains deeds, deeds of trust, easements and other instruments affecting title. County assessors provide property characteristics and assessed values. When property taxes remain unpaid, counties foreclose and sell the property at a tax deed sale.
Where to Search
- County Auditor: Search recorded documents by grantor/grantee, parcel number or legal description. Many counties offer online indexes and document images.
- County Assessor: Provides parcel search tools to look up ownership, assessed value, tax year and property characteristics.
- Treasurer: Publishes lists of tax-defaulted properties scheduled for foreclosure auctions.
Steps to Locate a Deed
- Find the parcel number through the assessor’s parcel search.
- Use the county auditor’s online search to locate the deed by parcel number or party names.
- Review the deed image and note recording details.
- Request a certified copy if required for legal purposes.
Washington Tax Deed Sales
Washington conducts tax deed sales rather than selling tax lien certificates. After taxes remain unpaid for several years, the county treasurer forecloses and auctions the property. Winning bidders receive a treasurer’s deed conveying all rights, subject to certain governmental liens. There is no redemption period following the sale.
Check treasurer websites for sale schedules, registration requirements and lists of properties. Research title, liens and property condition thoroughly before bidding.
Official source links
- WA.gov
Official Washington state portal with county/agency pathways.
- Washington Department of Revenue
State tax and property administration guidance.
- Washington Courts
Official court resources for filing, records, and county links.