Posted by Tony-VA on January 08, 2003 at 18:54:09:
I start by running an online search of the county tax records. Many counties have this feature now. Some provide greater detail than others but you should at the very least be able to tell who owns it (as of the last site update).
If this does not work or you require more detail, then head to the courthouse and pull the file yourself. This is very easy to do and you can learn a great deal about the property, the liens etc.
Also, in some states where the title companies conduct the title searches (rather than simply insuring title), they often will give you a great deal of information for free or perhaps a small fee.
Once you know the owner or the lienholder, your next adventure begins. If you are dealing with a foreclosing lienholder, you may have a lot of red tape ahead of you before you can locate someone who can actually make a decision.
Finding defaulting or out of state owners can be a game as well but it can bear fruit.
Best Wishes,
Tony-VA