To obtain a Property Certificate for a home loan application, contact your local county assessor’s office or property tax authority. Submit a written request with proof of ownership (e.g., a signed deed or closing documents) and valid identification. Pay any applicable fees and wait for the certificate, which typically includes details like property boundaries, ownership history, and tax information. Once received, submit the certificate to your mortgage lender as part of the underwriting process.

Lenders require a Property Certificate to verify legal ownership and ensure the property meets local regulations, reducing their risk of lending to fraudulent or improperly documented transactions. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), 18% of home loan applications are denied due to issues with property documentation, such as unclear ownership or title defects. Additionally, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mandates Property Certificates to confirm compliance with housing standards, which prevents future defaults linked to unsafe or non-compliant properties. Data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) shows that properties lacking proper certification are 25% more likely to experience loan delinquency, as lenders cannot accurately assess value or liability. Securing a Property Certificate streamlines underwriting, ensures regulatory compliance, and mitigates financial risks for both borrowers and lenders.