Many landowners can’t find their deed. It may have been lost in a move, stored with a deceased relative’s papers or simply forgotten. Fortunately, deeds and other property records are public and can usually be found at the county level.
The recorder’s office
Deeds are recorded with the county recorder of deeds, sometimes called the register of deeds or county clerk. Recording creates a public record of ownership.
Searching records
Many counties have online databases where you can search by owner name, parcel number or document number. Others require an in-person visit or a phone request. Copies usually cost a small fee.
The assessor’s office
The assessor or appraiser maintains records of property values and parcel details. Their website often shows owner names, acreage and maps. This office handles property tax bills. It can confirm whether taxes are current and provide payment history. Recorded plats and surveys are usually held by the recorder or planning office. They show lot layouts and boundaries. If the land was inherited, probate court records may show how ownership passed.
Using the records
Once you have your deed, confirm the legal description, owner names and how title is held. Compare it with tax records to ensure they match.
Helping buyers
Buyers and title companies will pull these records themselves, but having copies ready speeds up the process. Direct buyers that say “we buy Missouri land in any county” rely on these same public records to evaluate parcels quickly across large areas.
Check for recent changes
Review your property records periodically to ensure no unexpected documents, such as liens or fraudulent deeds, have been recorded against your land. Some counties offer free alert services.
Request certified copies when needed
Title companies or courts may require certified copies of deeds or other documents. The recorder’s office can provide these for a fee.
Understand legal descriptions
Legal descriptions can use metes and bounds, lot and block or other systems. If you’re unsure what yours means, a surveyor or title company can explain it. County staff can often guide you through record searches. Store records in one place so they are easy to find.
Why accurate records matter
Records that contain errors, such as misspelled names or incorrect parcel numbers, can slow down a sale. Reviewing your deed, tax records and plat maps before listing gives you time to request corrections. Most counties have simple procedures for fixing clerical mistakes, but some errors may require a corrective deed signed by the original parties.
Records from the past
Older deeds may be handwritten or stored on microfilm. County staff can often help locate these historic records if they are not available online.
Staying organized
Keep copies of your deed, tax statements and any surveys in one place. Good records make selling, refinancing or passing on land much easier.
