How to Find the History of a Property Online

Finding the history of a property online can help you in various ways, especially if you want to learn the history of a property you intend to purchase. It can give you an idea of past renovations and structural changes, uncover past uses, identify whether the property has historical significance, or simply satisfy your curiosity.

Since a wide range of information about properties is available online, you can discover the history of any given property without leaving your home. In this article, we will uncover how to find the history of a property online. We will also share some of our expert insights into expanding your search on this matter.

Read on to learn everything about how you can discover the history of any given property.

How to Find the History of a Property Online – 5 Proven Ways

There isn’t just one way to discover a property’s history online. There are many methods at your disposal that can help you figure out a property’s history. Here are five proven ways that will lead you to learn more about the history of a property online.

Reverse Address Search

The most convenient and effective way to find the history of a property online is by using a reverse address search tool. These tools search public records and online databases to compile information about the address you enter, giving you all the details out there on the internet about a property, whether it is a residential or commercial property.

While there are many of these tools, we recommend using USPeopleSearch’s reverse address lookup tool. We recommend this one because, after countless tests, it is the one that provided the most accurate and up-to-date information about the properties we entered and knew the history. The historical information USPeopleSearch finds includes property ownership history, tax liens, tax records, zoning and land use, legal description changes, and even past code violations.

If you’re looking for the fastest way to find the history of a property online, it is the best tool to use.

Check Online Listings

Although this won’t always work with older properties, you can search the property on online listings to know its history. For example, an online listing from 2013 and 2020 might have major differences, allowing you to take note of the changes.

To get started, search websites like Zillow and Realtor to enter address information. You can also use Web Archive to access historical data.

Lookup the Property on County Assessor’s Database

Most counties in the US have an online database that you can use for searching for a property. If your county has one, enter the address or parcel number to get all the information available from public records. This typically includes property ownership history, value assessments, and tax information.

If your county doesn’t have an online database that you can use to search a property, you will need to go to your county clerk’s office to get the publicly available information about the property you’re searching for or use a reverse address lookup tool like the one we mentioned above.

Historical Archives

There are countless historical archives you can find online. Even the ones that contain information from centuries ago have digital versions that you can search in the comfort of your home.

By utilizing these archives, you can find out details that you can’t find anywhere on the internet. If you suspect that the property you’re searching for might have historical significance, this is one of the best ways to discover it.

Google Search

At first, a Google search might seem too simple but it can help you discover the history of your property in detail. Google News archives are particularly a great source for searching property history. If there was a significant event that took place at the property you’re searching for, you will know about it.

One tip when using Google or other search engines to discover the history of a property online is to use the names of past owners. This will help you connect the property to the owner at that time, which will help you gather more information about the history of the property.

Alternatives for How to Find the History of a Property Online

The historical information you’re looking for might not always be available online. In addition to online methods for finding the history of a property, we also recommend taking some in-person actions to get the information you need.

This includes visiting your county clerk’s office, asking real estate agents familiar with the area, and local historical society offices. You can also consult local historians and longtime residents to learn more about the property’s history.

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