New Hampshire Property Records

The Granite State of New Hampshire is picturesque, with many forests, mountains, and lakes. The first ever clock was invented in New Hampshire, and Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, hosted the first summer resort. The state has spawned many significant firsts and was named after Hampshire, England, by Captain John Mason. New Hampshire was the 9th state to join the nation and was once nicknamed the "Switzerland of America" for its stunning mountain scenery. More than 1.395 million people call New Hampshire home, and there are 638,091 homes in New Hampshire, which means the state produces a vast amount of property records.

Property records are vital to the real estate market and local government. They are created by government offices, lawyers, title companies, realtors, appraisers, insurance agents, local officials, and even private companies. These essential documents verify home ownership.

What Are Property Records in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire property records are essential documents, reports, and forms that contain information about real property and its owners. Many of these documents are legal documents held by government offices and the courts. Some contain vast amounts of detail, and others are very finite.

Property History Search Can Include

A property history search can reveal much about a property and its owners. Collecting information from the first owner on can be fascinating and tell quite a tale.

Some of the things that a property history search may reveal include:

Property Address
Detailed Legal Property Description
Current Owner's Name and Address
Historical Owners
Property Inspections
Appraisals / Property Value
Deeds
Liens
Tax Records
Mortgage Records
Bankruptcies
Foreclosures
Plat Maps
Surveys
Easements / Conveyances
Property Details
Lot Size
Zoning
Boundary Lines

Sources of Property Records in New Hampshire

When searching for property records, it would be great if you could visit one location, but you can't. Property records are scattered among many different offices, agencies, departments, and companies. For example, if you need to file a new deed in New Hampshire, you will contact the county register of deeds. In Rockingham County, the register of deeds is Cathy Ann Stacey.

In New Hampshire, local town clerks handle property tax bills, set tax rates, and collect tax payments. The New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration oversees all of these local tax officials and approves tax rates for the municipalities. Local tax assessors assess each property to help set tax rates.

Towns and cities handle issuing building permits for building new construction, renovating, or demolishing a building. Contact your local building inspector's office to apply for a building permit. The New Hampshire State Fire Marshall's Office is the one to contact for commercial projects and state-owned land.

How are Land Records Different from Property Records?

New Hampshire collectively calls land records maps, plats, and deeds. The New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Forests and Land Division handles all historical land records, surveys, and related items.

Property records encompass a much broader spectrum of information about more aspects of the property and its owners.

The Role of the Register of Deeds

The role of the register of deeds is vital in New Hampshire. This official is responsible for recording all legal documents pertaining to real property in the county. Some examples include deeds, mortgages, notices of liens, attachments, plans, and any other legal document affecting real estate. They are also responsible for allowing access to, protecting, and preserving records dating back to 1823.

How Property Records are Maintained in New Hampshire

Each county has its own method of recording and preserving records. However, one thing remains the same. When a new document arrives, the register stamps it with the date, time, and code for referencing. The record then immediately becomes a public record.

Accessing Records at the Register of Deeds in New Hampshire

Part of the register of deed's responsibility is to provide public access to records. Each office may have its own process, but you can request records through the register of deeds. They may charge you a small per-page fee. To help get you started, here are a few registers of deeds locations in New Hampshire:

Register of Deeds Locations in New Hampshire

To find the correct office, you will need the county name. Use this list of counties to select the one you want, and then click it for more details. You will see the name and contact info of the register of deeds, plus a ton of county resources.

Types of Property Records

You will come across many different types of property records when searching. Some of them are more detailed, and others sparse. The most common types you will find in New Hampshire include:

Deeds and Conveyance Records

Deeds are the most common type of property record. They transfer ownership and verify the title. County registers of deeds receive, record, file, and make them accessible to the public.

All parties must sign deeds, and a notary must witness them. Some of the information contained in deeds includes:

Name of the Seller/Grantor and Buyer/Grantee.
A detailed description of the property.
Maps and plats along with boundaries and sometimes surveys showing the acreage and edges of the property.
Conveyance language explaining the ownership transfer from one person or entity to another.
Notarization and execution are at the bottom, where everyone signs to make it legal.

Much of the language contained in deeds refers to the warranty implied or specified and the conveyance of the land from one or more parties to another.

Property Tax Records

Anyone who owns property in New Hampshire must pay taxes on it. These taxes pay for road maintenance, schools, emergency services, and government salaries. Because New Hampshire has no personal income or sales tax, it has the fourth-highest property taxes in the country. The state has an average effective property tax rate of 1.77%. Since the median property value is $534,689, the average homeowner pays $6,855 in property taxes yearly.

Local county tax assessors set tax rates, and town clerks bill property owners and collect payments. The New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration oversees all local tax officials.

Tax records contain the following information:

Tax Rate - Each property falls under a taxing jurisdiction in the state with a different tax rate. The document should identify the taxing jurisdiction plus its tax rate.
Assessed Value - Assessors conduct property assessments to determine their value. The value is the basis for calculating taxes. Therefore, the document will contain the property's assessed value.
Tax Payment Methods - The document may include information on the accepted methods of paying property records.
Tax Payment History - The record may indicate the payments made so far with dates and amounts specified.
Property Details - The document should indicate information about the property, such as an address, size, and any improvements.
Owner Information - The record should also provide information about the property owner (s).

Easements and Covenants

Easements and covenants are other items of interest you will find in property records. These usually accompany deeds and must be disclosed to buyers before closing.

Easements are rights of way that allow someone other than the owner to access the property for a specific purpose. A good example would be a wireless company with cell phone towers installed on private land. The company can enter the property anytime to maintain its towers without first asking.

Covenants are rules about how the land can be used. If you buy a condo or move to a gated community, you must agree to certain covenants. An example might be prohibited paint colors on the outside of your home.

Plats and Surveys

Plats and surveys are both maps. The difference is that plats show the boundaries of all the neighboring properties plus the target property, and surveys show only the boundary of the target property.

The following information usually appears in a standard survey document:

Surveyor Information - The survey document may open with information on the licensed surveyor or surveying business in charge of the survey. The surveyor's name, contact details, license number, and professional seal are all included.
Property Description - A legal description of the property being surveyed is included in the survey document. This description may include lot numbers, metes and bounds, references to neighboring properties, and other characteristics that identify the property's borders.
Border Measurements - The survey record may include accurate measurements of the property borders, such as the lengths of each boundary line, angles, and coordinates. This data assists in determining the exact dimensions and shape of the property.
Makers - The survey document identifies and describes the physical monuments or markers discovered on the land. Markers such as iron pins, concrete monuments, or natural features determine the property's corners or crucial locations.
Easements and Encroachments - If the property has any easements or encroachments, the survey document will usually mention their location and dimensions. The information identifies rights-of-way, utility lines, or other shared uses that may influence the land.

Historical Property Records

It can be fun to research historical property records about notable properties in the area. Often, a state like New Hampshire will move some of its older property records into archives to make room for new ones. The New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is responsible for all historical property records. Learn more about how to access these records on their website.

Building Permits and Regulations in New Hampshire

You must apply for a building permit before building anything new, renovating an existing structure, or demolishing a building. You can do so by contacting the local town or city building inspector's office to apply. You must complete an application and provide building plans, material lists, and other documentation before approval.

How Can I Search for Property Records?

Searching for property records can be very helpful. Thankfully, modern technology offers you many different ways to do so. Try one of the methods below to find what works for you.

Online Property Record Search

First, start your search with a generic online property records search. Type the full property address into a search bar and see what comes up. You may quickly find what you need, but chances are you will have to go further.

In-Person Property Record Search

All of the county registers of deeds offices have regular visiting hours where you can request records in person. You might have to fill out a form, show your ID, and pay a small fee per page.

Using Property Record Indexes

You can also try one of the many property indexes online. Some are reputable, but others are not. Use caution and always verify the information you get from these sources.

Utilizing Commercial Services

The best and fastest way to find all the property records you need is a commercial service like PropertyChecker. Save time accessing millions of nationwide records all in one place!

How to Search Property Records by Address

The easiest way to search for property records is using the address. Type the full address (with the city, state, and zip) into a search bar and review the results.

How to Search Property Records by Name

You might also have the option to search using the owner's name, but this is not the most effective way to do so. Not all search portals use the owner's name as search criteria.

Understanding Property Ownership in New Hampshire

It's fantastic to own a piece of the Granite State to call home. However, it also comes with some serious responsibilities, like paying your mortgage, interest, taxes, and insurance on time. You must also maintain your property if you want the value to remain high. Your name and address will appear in public property records, which anyone can review.

Identifying Property Owners

Dozens of reasons exist for wanting to find the owner of a specific property. You can find out easily by contacting the register of deeds in the county where the property resides and asking to see the most current deed. You can peruse older deeds to see historical owners.

Chain of Title

The chain of title refers to the public list of all property owners going back to the first owner. It is meant to provide transparency and must always remain unbroken.

Ownership History and Transfers

Most often, property changes hands through real estate sales. However, sometimes people pass along property in their wills or gift it to someone while still alive. Occasionally, they will sign the deed to their house to pay off a debt.

Property Descriptions and Boundaries in New Hampshire

Each property in New Hampshire has its own legal description. These descriptions appear in deeds, mortgages, appraisals, and other documents. They include map coordinates of where the property is plus a written description including natural landmarks and other items to ensure that someone can find it.

Surveys and Land Measurements

Surveys measure land and provide exact map coordinates of the property along with boundaries. They are used before new construction, when installing underground utilities, and in boundary disputes.

Boundary Disputes and Resolutions

Boundary disputes are common. They occur when one party believes another is trespassing on their land. These can sometimes end up in court, where a judge must decide the fate of the two. The courts rely on professional surveyors to provide expert testimony about where the boundaries lie.

Liens, Encumbrances, and Property Records in New Hampshire

Liens are encumbrances that can negatively affect a property and its owners. Too many can reduce the property's value and make it very hard to sell. If liens lead to foreclosure, the owner's financial reputation can be ruined. There are two main types of property liens: voluntary and involuntary.

Voluntary Liens

Voluntary liens are those that you have control over, like when you take out a loan or mortgage and agree to the lender putting a lien on the property. Even voluntary liens can lead to foreclosure and the loss of your home.

Mortgage Liens

If you borrow money to buy a home, you will take out a mortgage. You agree to the lien and use your house as collateral in return for the money. If you default on the loan, the lender will foreclose and sell the house to pay off the loan.

A standard mortgage document contains the following information:

Borrower Information - The names and contact information of the borrower (s) obtaining the loan will be included in the mortgage paperwork.
Lender Information - The mortgage paperwork will identify the lender (s) supplying the loan funds.
Property Description - The mortgage paperwork will provide a complete legal description of the mortgaged property, including the address, borders, and any pertinent identifying information.
Loan Details - The document contains loan-related information such as the loan amount, interest rate, repayment duration, payment schedule, and specific terms or stipulations.
Encumbrances - Any existing encumbrances on the property, such as liens, judgments, or easements, that potentially influence the loan or the property's title may be mentioned in the mortgage agreement.

Involuntary Liens

Involuntary liens are not within your control. They are imposed on the property as a result of some money you owe. These types almost always lead to foreclosure and the loss of your home.

Mechanic's Liens

Landscapers, architects, material suppliers, and contractors can use a mechanic's lien to get paid if they do work for you and you refuse to pay them. They must follow a tight timeline and sue you in court to enforce the lien. If they win in court, they can foreclose and sell your house to pay off the debt.

Tax Liens

Everyone must pay property taxes each year. If you fail to pay them in New Hampshire, the tax authority can impose a tax lien, and eventually, they will foreclose and sell your property at auction for far less than fair market value.

Judgment Liens

Creditors can use judgment liens the same way contractors use mechanic's liens. If you owe a company money, they can first impose a lien and then sue you in court. If they win, they can foreclose and sell your property to get their money back.

The Process of Property Liens in New Hampshire

The process of placing a lien on a property differs depending on the type of lien. Here is what a tax lien would entail:

After the property owner receives a notice 30 days post the date of delinquency, they receive a Notice of Impending Lien. The letter includes the taxes owed plus the cost of preparing the notice and deadline.
If the property owner does not pay the lien by the deadline, the tax collector places and files a lien with the County Registry of Deeds. With the lien placement, interests increase to 14% annually.
After 45 days of lien placement, the municipality sends notice to other existing lien holders to ensure priority over other holders. The cost of sending lien notices to other claimants is added to the tax claim.
The municipality begins deeding the property if the debt remains unpaid for two years. It involves a series of notices and costs as directed by the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated.

Property Records and Real Estate Transactions in New Hampshire

Property records really shine during real estate transactions. Before the sale, many parties consult property records to gather information, look up essential facts like the value, taxes, and insurance, and look for any liens. Many new records, such as appraisals, mortgages, and liens, will be created during the process.

Buying Property: Due Diligence

Before buying property in New Hampshire, perform due diligence and use property records to collect as much information as possible. Research historical records to look for any red flags.

Selling Property: Providing Disclosure

When you sell property, you must disclose to potential buyers about material defects, such as whether the house has ever used lead paint or had asbestos.

Title Searches and Insurance

If you take out a mortgage on the home, your lender will require that you pay for title insurance. This policy protects you and the lender from any legal claims that appear after the sale. Your attorney or title company will perform a thorough property title search to avoid any of these issues.

Foreclosure and Property Records in New Hampshire

Foreclosures appear in public property records for anyone to see. It can be embarrassing for the owner, and it will lower the property's value and make it harder to sell. Many people won't want to deal with the hassles of buying a foreclosure property. All the liens must be satisfied before the sale can close.

Pre-Foreclosures in New Hampshire

Pre-foreclosure homes are in the foreclosure process but haven't yet been sold at auction. This period presents an opportunity for investors to buy the house cheaply and sell it for a profit.

When was the House Built?

A property history search is excellent for determining when a particular house was built. Contact the register of deeds in the county where the house is located and ask to see the first-ever building permit. It will show you who originally owned the house and when it was built.

Property Records and Property Values

New Hampshire property values are some of the most essential information, especially if you are buying or selling real estate. These values fluctuate frequently with the economy, local real estate market, and other factors. The median home price in New Hampshire is $534,689. Property values appear in appraisals, assessments, insurance policies, mortgages, and other property records.

Assessments and Appraisals

Local tax officials (assessors) use state-approved calculations to derive the value of each property within the jurisdiction. These values do not always match the property's fair market value (FMV).

Appraisers use complex calculations to determine a property's value for mortgage or estate planning. They arrive at the fair market value by comparing similar homes. The fair market value is what the house would sell for in the current market.

Factors that Determine Property Values in New Hampshire

Waterfront Access - Because New Hampshire has many lakes, rivers, and ponds, waterfront or water-access homes are in high demand for the recreational opportunities they provide.
Ski Resorts - New Hampshire is well-known for its ski resorts, including famous locations such as Loon Mountain, Waterville Valley, and Cannon Mountain. Properties near these ski resorts or with easy access to skiing and winter sports amenities may have a higher value.
Property Taxes - The property tax system in New Hampshire can have an impact on property values. When determining the worth of a property, property owners may consider the property tax rates and overall tax load in a specific municipality.

Privacy and Property Records

Privacy and property records do not go hand in hand. Property records are public records, meaning anyone can review them or get copies anytime. If you purchase property, your information will appear in public property records.

Accessing Public Property Records

Anyone can access public property records in New Hampshire by visiting the register of deeds where the property resides. Records can also be accessed through online government resources (a bit clunky) and other search portals.

Why are Property Records Public?

Property records are public for two main reasons. The first reason is to provide a public chain of title for the property going all the way back to the first owner. The second reason is to prevent any government office from having too much power; it's about transparency.

How Do I Protect My Personal Information in Property Records?

You cannot remove all your details from public records, but you can minimize your exposure to identity theft and fraud by contacting the companies and government offices that hold your records and requesting that they remove anything beyond your name and address.

Maintaining and Amending Property Records

It's vital to keep your property records up to date so that when you need them, they are correct. The office that holds them will not know to update them automatically when things in your life change. You must do it yourself.

Correcting Errors on Property Records

Sometimes, New Hampshire property records contain errors. If you find any on yours, simply contact the register of deeds and ask them to correct the problem. You will have to show documentation proving the error.

Amending Property Records for Legal Changes

You will also need to update property records when someone dies. To do this, bring the death certificate, will, and any "orders of administration" to the register of deeds and ask them to draft a new deed with the new owner's name and address. It will need to be witnessed and notarized.

How to Change the Name on Property Records in New Hampshire

You might want to update your property records if you get married or divorced. Bring your marriage certificate or divorce decree to the register of deeds and ask them to update the name on the deed and related documents.

What Should I Consider When Buying a Property Using Property Records?

There is so much to think about when buying property in New Hampshire. The value, taxes, insurance, liens, and foreclosures are just a few items you will want to research. When performing a property history search, let PropertyChecker be your go-to destination for all records in one place. You will gain access to millions of nationwide property records within minutes.

New Hampshire County Property Records