Property Records

Property records are official documents that establish ownership history, transfers, and financial encumbrances tied to a specific parcel of land. In Oakland County, these records typically include ownership deeds, mortgage filings, liens, foreclosure records, and appraisal information.

The Oakland County Register of Deeds is responsible for creating and maintaining this public record for all land situated within the county. According to the Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds office, documents recorded date back to January 1, 1964, with the exception of subdivision plat maps. Every document submitted for recording is scanned, microfilmed, and indexed using modern preservation methods before being returned to the submitter by mail.

These records matter because they establish the legal chain of title for a property. A lien, for example, signals that a creditor has a financial claim against the property, which could affect a sale or refinance. A transfer record documents when and how ownership changed hands, while appraisal information offers a sense of assessed value over time. For real estate investors, title companies, and attorneys, these details are essential for due diligence before any transaction closes.

Are Deeds Available for Lookup, and What Exactly Are They?

A deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of real property from one party to another. It’s one of the most important records tied to any piece of real estate, since it proves who legally holds title. Deeds in Oakland County are available for public lookup through the Oakland County Super Index at www.ocmideeds.com. The Super Index allows users to search for deeds, mortgages, liens, and other recorded documents tied to a specific property or name.

To look up a deed, visit the Super Index portal and search by property address, parcel number, or owner name. Advanced search options are also available for more precise results. Once you locate the record you need, you can view details or request a copy of the document.

How Much Do Deed Records and Other Property Documents Cost?

Oakland County’s Super Index operates on a tiered subscription model. Basic searches are free, allowing users to look up property ownership and recording information at no cost. Users who need more advanced search capabilities or bulk document access can opt into a premium subscription tier for an additional fee.

Specific pricing for each subscription level, along with per-document fees for obtaining certified copies, is outlined in the county’s official fee schedule, available through the Super Index Subscription Levels and Fees resource on the Oakland County website. Because fee schedules can change, it’s worth checking the current document before budgeting for a records request.

Where Can You Get Help or Additional Resources?

If you have questions about accessing Oakland County property records, the Clerk/Register of Deeds office is available to help. You can reach the office by phone at 248-858-0581 or by email at clerk@oaklandcountymi.gov. The office is located at 1200 North Telegraph Road, Building 12E, Pontiac, MI 48341.