Kristin Wong explores methods for homeowners to research the history of their homes beyond the basic details available on mainstream real estate sites. By leveraging specialized databases, historical maps, public records, and even neighborhood knowledge, homeowners can uncover a wide range of historical details about their property, from past owners and architectural details to more macabre aspects, such as if anyone has died there.
Key Points:
- Trulia’s Property Sitemap and the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) database offer detailed property listings, which include photos, zoning information, and property boundaries.
- For those curious about deaths within a property, DiedInHouse.com provides such information for a fee, along with data on fire incidents or meth activity.
- Historical maps available for major cities, and resources like WhatWasThere.com, provide a glimpse into a home’s past, offering potential images or significant events nearby.
- County tax assessor’s offices, county recorders, city halls, and local libraries hold public records that can divulge information on previous homeowners, property deeds, and even personal details like divorces.
- Engaging with long-time neighbors can reveal unique and personal histories about a property not found in official databases or online resources.
Source: https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/property-history-how-to-look-up-the-history-of-your-home
