To check mortgage loan records when purchasing a home, first contact the mortgagee or servicer directly through official channels. Request a copy of the loan agreement, promissory note, and current payoff amount. Utilize the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)’s Home Loan Look-Up tool to verify servicer details and loan status. For Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loans, use the FHFA Lender Lookup tool. Additionally, review public records via county assessor or recorder offices for existing liens or ownership history. Engage a title company to conduct a preliminary title search, which often includes mortgage-related information.

This process is critical to uncovering potential errors, ensuring accurate debt obligations, and avoiding hidden Liens. According to the CFPB, 12% of mortgage-related complaints in 2022 involved disputes over loan terms or payoff amounts, underscoring the need for thorough verification. The FHFA reports that 90% of U.S. mortgages are backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, making their loan lookup tools essential for verifying conforming loans. A 2021 American Title Association study found that 98% of title disputes stem from undetected errors, including unrecorded mortgages. Proactive verification safeguards buyers from financial risks, such as assuming outdated loan balances or overlapping Liens. Regulatory compliance, such as the TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) rules, also mandates transparency, requiring buyers to review loan documents at least seven days before closing. Combining official tools, servicer requests, and third-party title searches ensures compliance and minimizes post-purchase legal or financial complications.