Whether you’re a homebuyer, investor, or just doing due diligence on a property, one of the most important questions to ask is: Is this property involved in any legal dispute? Disputed properties can lead to costly delays, legal battles, or even the loss of your investment.

Fortunately, there are several ways to find out if a property is under dispute — and most of them are easier than you might think.

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1. Check Public Property Records

Start by checking the county recorder or clerk’s office where the property is located. These records often show:

• Liens
• Lis pendens (notice of pending litigation)
• Judgments
• Foreclosure filings
• Probate filings

Most counties in the U.S. have online databases where you can search by the property address or the owner’s name. If the property has a lis pendens recorded, it usually means a lawsuit involving the property is pending — a red flag worth investigating further.

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2. Order a Title Search

One of the most effective ways to uncover disputes is by ordering a title search through a title company. A full title report will reveal:

• Ownership history
• Existing liens or encumbrances
• Legal claims or boundary disputes
• Easements or rights of way
• Court judgments tied to the property

This is a standard part of most real estate transactions, and it protects you from buying a property with hidden legal issues.

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3. Hire a Real Estate Attorney

A real estate attorney can conduct deeper legal research and check civil court records for lawsuits involving the property or owner. They can also explain any recorded documents and represent you if a dispute is discovered.

Hiring an attorney is especially important if:

• You suspect the property is part of a divorce, inheritance, or partnership dispute
• You’re buying from a distressed seller
• You’re investing in foreclosures or tax sales

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4. Check Civil Court Records

You can search for property disputes in local or state civil court databases. These often include:

• Lawsuits filed by or against the property owner
• Partition actions (where co-owners are forcing a sale)
• Boundary disputes with neighbors
• Quiet title actions

Search by the owner’s name, and look for any recent or ongoing litigation that may impact the title.

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5. Talk to Neighbors or the HOA

If the property is part of a homeowners association (HOA), ask the HOA board if there are any known disputes. You can also speak to neighbors who may be aware of:

• Boundary or fence disputes
• Ongoing code violations
• History of lawsuits involving the property

It’s a grassroots method, but sometimes local knowledge uncovers things public records won’t show.

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6. Use Online Property Reports

Websites like PropertyShark, RealQuest, or your county assessor’s website may provide preliminary data such as:

• Owner info
• Sale history
• Mortgage info
• Recorded notices

While not as comprehensive as a title report, these tools can give you a quick sense of whether something seems off.

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Why It Matters

Buying a property involved in a legal dispute can:

• Delay or block your closing
• Expose you to future lawsuits
• Cost you in legal fees or property repairs
• Affect your ability to get financing or title insurance

Doing your homework early protects your investment and gives you peace of mind.

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Final Thoughts

Before you buy any property, verify its legal status. A clean title is one of the most important protections you can have as a buyer.

If you’re unsure where to begin, consult with a real estate agent or attorney who understands how to navigate local property records. And remember — if something feels off, it’s worth checking twice.

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Have a property in mind and want to verify its status? Reach out — I can connect you with a trusted title company or legal expert to help you do your due diligence.

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David Delgado – NMLS #349079
President/CEO
Main Office (866) 587-6927
Freedom Choice Lending
NMLS #1998153