Can I do my own title search?
Technically, yes—you may conduct your own title search. Our records are open for public inspection. However, title searches can be complex, and our experience shows that the expertise of a professional title searcher is often well worth the cost. Please note that the Register of Deeds does not perform title searches.
Where do I get a legal description of my property?
Your property’s legal description is listed on the deed by which you acquired the property. If you need a copy of your deed, it may be obtained from the Register of Deeds Office.
How can I find out if there is a lien on some property?
To determine whether a property has a lien, you must review the appropriate public records. Mortgages and federal tax liens are recorded in the Register of Deeds Office, while mechanics or construction liens and state tax liens are filed in the Clerk of Courts Office. The Register of Deeds does not research liens or make determinations regarding whether a lien exists on a property.
Can the Register of Deeds tell me if I have a clear title?
No. The Register of Deeds Office is not authorized to render opinions regarding the status of a property’s title. To determine whether a title is clear, you may wish to consult a professional title searcher or attorney.
What type of documents do I need to record to transfer my property?
Property transfers require a land conveyance document, which is typically prepared by an attorney or a title company. There are several types of conveyance documents depending on the situation, and the appropriate form will be determined by the parties involved.
Will the Register of Deeds staff help me draft my real estate document?
We cannot assist you in the actual drafting of documents, as we are not licensed to practice law. Our office keeps and protects real estate records. We can answer basic questions about our process.
- We do not provide legal forms.
- We cannot tell you which forms to use, fill them out for you, or prepare legal documents.
We recommend the services of an attorney or title company for real estate transactions.
Do you require a parcel identification number (PIN) for recording, if so, how do I obtain a number?
A parcel identification number (PIN) is not required to be included on documents submitted for recording. If you need a PIN, it can be obtained from the Buffalo County Treasurer’s Office, found on your real estate tax documents, or retrieved from the Buffalo County website.
How do I change my deed so that it reflects my married name?
You are not required to change your deed after marriage, but you may choose to update it to reflect your married name. To do so, you should contact an attorney or title company to prepare and record the appropriate conveyance document.
Where can I get a copy of my divorce?
If you need a copy of your divorce decree, it must be obtained from the Clerk of Courts in the county where the divorce was granted. Divorce certificates for divorces granted in 2016 or later may be obtained from our office.
How do I update my marriage license to my married name?
A marriage license is never updated to reflect a married name. It will always show the names as they were when the license was issued. If you need proof of marriage, you may request a certified marriage certificate from the Register of Deeds.
Can you provide an Apostilles or Authentications?
We are unable to provide either an Apostilles or Authentication for international document requirements. In order to receive one of these options, you will need to contact the Wisconsin Secretary of State’s office. Additional information can be obtained by clicking on this link: https://sos.wi.gov/Pages/Apostilles/howto.aspx
Where can I get my passport?
You can apply for a passport at the Clerk of Courts office. You will need a certified copy of your birth certificate, and if your name has changed, you may also need a certified marriage certificate. Certified copies of birth and marriage certificates can be obtained from the Register of Deeds office.
Where can I purchase a plat book?
Plat books are available for purchase at our office during normal business hours. They are also sold by the Buffalo County Historical Society, located on the 3rd floor of the courthouse, during their regular business hours.