How to Research Liens on a property

[Ryan Cameron]

I have a seller lined up for a pretty good (Almost too good) deal in Philadelphia.

The Median sales price for similar properties in this area is $80K with the last few houses in the area selling for $100K+

They're asking $21K. It is a complete gut job and is the only vacant home on the block.

I would like to do my homework on the place before I make a move, so my question is: How can I research liens (Utility, mechanics, etc.) on the property?

I already searched the tax liens and all is good.

Any help would be greatly appreciated

[Rick H.]

This thread started out as "how to research liens on a property" and then morphed into 'how do I get free title information on my computer (in my basement, in my underwear, I suppose). 

Title companies use private data repositories called "title plants." This allows their computers to rapidly and efficiently pull chains of title and voluntary and involuntary liens of record without physically going to the recorders office. 

This represents many hundreds of millions of dollars of their investment and is a competitive advantage that should not be taken lightly. I've taken the VIP tour at First American Title's US Headquarters and I'm telling you it's impressive.

For us citizens, we can research independently by driving to the local county recorder's office and getting help from a clerk on how to use their database. However, they do not teach you how to interpret the data!

For that you need to know the system for recording deeds, voluntary and involuntary liens in your state. 

You are not going to learn this skill by simply reading a post.