PROPERTY OWNERS SHOULD BE ON THE LOOKOUT
FOR OFFERS TO BUY PUBLIC RECORDS AT HIGH PRICES
Clerk of Courts Gary Knowles is advising that a local citizen has recently brought to his attention a solicitation received through the mail that, while not illegal, is definitely misleading. Residents are advised to be wary of official looking notices they receive in the mail informing them that they need to purchase a copy of the “Grant Deed” for their property. Some of the solicitations imply that the property transfer may be in question and that the company will provide a copy of the deed and a property profile for an $89.00 service fee. Additionally, the letter appears to be a bill with a “Compliance Response Date”, even though they state “this is not a bill” in smaller print.Residents should be aware that is an effort by this company to obtain money for services that are readily available through the Clerk’s office. Copies may be obtained through the Clerk’s office either in person or over the internet at www.taylorclerk.com. Our copy fee as set out by state law is $1.00 a page and certified copies are an additional $2.00.Also, once a property owner records a deed in the Clerk’s office, it is a permanent record of ownership. This recording protects the owner’s property rights. lt makes no difference whether the property owner has a physical copy or original deed in their possession. The rights of ownership of that parcel are safe and secure.