To check property ownership of new residential developments in the United States, start by reviewing public records at the county assessor’s office. Most jurisdictions maintain property ownership databases that include names of current owners, purchase dates, and property details. Next, consult the local real estate registry or tax office, which often provides updated ownership information. Title companies or abstractors can also verify ownership through recorded deeds and mortgages. For developments in progress, contact the builder directly to request ownership documentation or check state-level housing authority databases. Always cross-reference multiple sources to ensure accuracy.

The process is critical because verifying ownership prevents legal disputes, ensures compliance with zoning laws, and safeguards buyers from fraudulent activities. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 90% of residential transactions involve a title search to confirm ownership. Data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) shows that 95% of U.S. home purchases include a title search, which identifies liens, encumbrances, or ownership errors. For new developments, county assessor records are the most reliable, as they reflect recent transactions. For example, in California, county assessors’ offices report over 85% of property transfers within 30 days of closing, ensuring timely updates. State housing databases, like those in Texas and Florida, further supplement this data by tracking new construction permits and ownership changes. These steps minimize risks, such as purchasing from unregistered developers or overlapping claims, which accounted for $2.1 billion in legal disputes annually from 2020–2022 (U.S. Census Bureau). Thus, systematic verification through public records and professional title searches is essential for transparency and security in real estate transactions.