If walls could talk, what stories would they tell about the history of your house? Maybe the neighbors in your Chicago apartment never stopped sharing tales about the mysterious former resident in 221B, or perhaps you’re still convinced your rental house in Seattle was haunted.
Before buying a house in Marysville, WA, a house history search can help you uncover everything from interesting histories to specific property information. In this Redfin article, we’ll share a number of different resources to help you find what you’re looking for – and what may surprise you.
In this article:
Why should I do a house history search?
Learning about a house’s past gives you a deeper understanding of its background and can reveal crucial information about past repairs, upkeep, and any environmental concerns.
Even if your house isn’t very old, knowing the specifics can help ensure you’re on the right track as the new homeowner. Here are a some of the things you can learn from a house history search:
- Tax histories: See how property taxes have fluctuated over time and know what you can expect in the future.
- Property liens and judgements: Find out if there are any outstanding liens or or court orders against the property.
- Major construction and maintenance: Review the timeline of major maintenance and construction to understand what kind of upkeep you’ll need to prepare for.
- Protected land: Discover if your property borders protected green spaces or conservation areas to avoid costly fines before landscaping or remodeling.
- Criminal activity: Whether it was on your property or in your neighborhood, check criminal records for a more in depth look at any reported incidents.
- Historical details: Exploring the history of how the house was built and who lived there is one of the coolest investigations to do when buying a historic home.
A house history search can also reveal important information about a home that an agent or seller either…