Property Records

Kent County, MI Property Records

A deed is the legal document used to transfer ownership of real property from one party to another, and it acts as the main proof of title. Deeds filed in Kent County are recorded and made available to the public through the Register of Deeds office, which maintains records of warranty deeds, quit claim deeds, and other instruments affecting property ownership. Anyone can look up recorded deeds, making it possible to trace a property’s ownership history before purchasing or during estate settlement.

How to Search Deeds Online in Kent County

Looking up deeds online in Kent County is a straightforward process through the Online Deeds Search portal. This tool allows you to access and view property records from the convenience of your own home. While searching for deeds is free, there is a $1.00 per page fee for downloading document images, which can be paid electronically. This service is particularly useful for individuals researching property ownership, preparing for real estate transactions, or managing estate matters, providing quick and reliable access to essential records.

Alongside deeds, the Register of Deeds also records liens—including tax liens and mortgage liens—that may encumber a property. These liens can significantly affect a sale, since outstanding tax or mortgage obligations typically must be resolved before a clear title can transfer to a new owner.

Property Appraisals, Transfers, and Certified Copies

Property appraisals and transfers are equally important pieces of the ownership puzzle. To access these records yourself, Kent County offers a Property Search tool that lets users search by parcel number or street address. When searching, it helps to avoid punctuation, include directional prefixes like N or S before street names, and exclude descriptors such as “street” or “avenue” to improve results. If you need official, certified copies of deed records or other documentation from the Register of Deeds, applicable fees apply; the current rates are listed on the county’s Fee Schedule page.