The internet makes finding all types of information easy, even reducing your overall privacy. For this reason, it’s not uncommon for people to wonder whether or not their mortgage information is public record. If you’re looking for an answer to this common question, you’re in the right place.
We’re going to take you through everything you need to know about mortgage records. We’ll also cover what makes them public records and why they aren’t in some cases. Read on to learn more below.
What Is a Mortgage?
Mortgage loans are unique loans between you and a lender. The lender of a mortgage loan is typically a bank or financial entity. Mortgage agreements often come with a necessary interest rate, and they’re usually for the purchase of homes or property. In mortgage agreements, there’s typically a clause that allows the mortgage company to take your property if you fail to pay the loan.
In some cases, mortgages are loans you can take out against the value of your home. For example, if you need money for a large purchase, you can use your house as collateral to take out another mortgage. There are also reverse mortgages and other unique types of mortgages for large corporations buying lots of property.
Are Mortgages Public Records?
Yes, mortgage records are public records. When someone files the deed of a home with the appropriate government agency, mortgage information becomes a public record. Additionally, creditors and other interested parties can access mortgage records for various reasons.
Who Can Access Mortgage Records?
Real estate agencies, government agencies, and home buyers typically access mortgage records. That said, almost anyone can access mortgage records when they know where to look. Because they are public records, people search engines and Google searches may reveal information about someone’s mortgage.
When Do Mortgage Records Become Public Records?
Mortgage records become public records after a homeowner files the deed with the appropriate state authorities. When someone buys a home and transfers a deed, this is what transfers ownership of a home. Once a homeowner records the deed with the state’s recording office, it becomes a public record.
Different laws in each state outline when and how the recording process needs to be completed. Always verify your state’s rules to better understand when mortgage records become public.
Why It’s Important to Access Mortgage Records
Accessing mortgage records is helpful for a few reasons. Most reasons for looking into mortgage records have to do with real estate and property value. However, you can also learn more about a homeowner through their mortgage records.
Below we take you through the important reasons to access mortgage records:
- They identify the lending company or financial institution that a mortgage is held through
- When mortgages are moved between companies accessing the records shows you when this occurred
- Knowing mortgage details helps you estimate the value of a home
- Having access to mortgage records shows you how motivated someone might be to sell a home; someone who can’t afford their mortgage is more inclined to sell
- Mortgage records on homes that enter foreclosure give you a competitive edge when making a bid for the property
These are only some of the reasons to access mortgage records. It’s also possible to learn about someone’s alternate address and contact information by accessing mortgage records.
How to Access Mortgage Records
Because mortgages are public records, it’s possible to access them when you go through the appropriate channels. That said, some ways are better than others for mortgage information. More often than not, people search engines like Information.com are the best for locating mortgage records.
Using a Public Records Search Engine to Find Mortgage Records
Public records search engines like Information.com are perfect for finding information about someone’s mortgage records. A public records search engine allows you to search for things like mortgage records, address information, criminal history, and more.
To use a public records search engine, you need someone’s full name. Once you have their name or home address, simply enter it into Information.com’s search tool. From there, click “Search” and open a full report. The full report will show you everything you need to know about a property and its mortgage.
With an Information.com public records search, you’ll find the following information:
- Mortgage records
- Other financial records (credit history
- Marriage records
- Divorce records
- Addresses (current, alternate, and past)
- Email addresses
- Phone numbers
- Dating profiles
- Social media profiles
- Sex offender status
Overall, when you look for someone’s mortgage records with Information.com, you’ll find more than just mortgage records. You’ll find everything you need to know about someone, which will give you a competitive edge when bidding on a home.
County Databases
It’s also possible to find mortgage records within county databases. Every county holds mortgage and property records, making a visit to the County Clerk’s office worthwhile. If you’re looking for records, the County Clerk’s office can often point you in the right direction.
It’s also important to note that many state agencies now have online resources. With these resources, you can search for someone’s information on your state’s website. Though, depending on the state, what’s available on each website is different. Keep this in mind before you start your search.
Access Mortgage Records Today
Mortgage records are important information if you want to learn more about someone, purchase a home, or bid on a foreclosed property. In the past, you’d have to visit the County Clerk’s office or find other means to find mortgage records.
Today, websites like Information.com have your back. These people search engines will show you everything you need to know about someone, including mortgage records and other types of personal information.
Thomas Jackson is a dynamic and talented content writer at WonderWorldSpace.com, renowned for his engaging and informative articles. Beyond his professional pursuits in writing, Jack is also known for his deep passion for fitness, which not only shapes his lifestyle but also influences his work.