It’s not uncommon in Real Estate Law for clients to get upset because some way, somehow their county Appraisal District shows someone else as the owner of their property. After calming them down, I assure them that the Appraisal District records do not determine who is the rightful owner of the property.

So what do Appraisal Districts do?

Nobody knows for certain! Or at least it can feel that way.

Appraisal District records are not real estate records (although they are obviously related to, and influenced by, property records). They are tax records actually. They matter for the purpose of paying your county property taxes. That’s about it.

Should I freak out if the Appraisal District shows somebody else as the owner?

I’d advise against it. First, they do not affect ownership whatsoever. Second, you can still pay your property taxes even if they don’t get sent to you during a dispute over property ownership. Just go to the CAD office, tell them you want to pay the taxes on the property (give them the address), and then tender payment. Keep your receipt.

What records control ownership?

The County property records control ownership and other interests in property. This includes deeds, deeds of trust, liens, probate orders, affidavits of heirship, and other documents that affect ownership.

How can Holtsclaw Law help?

We handle ownership disputes and are prepared to prosecute or defend your claim to ownership. After we prevail in the matter, we will give you the documents you need to go to the CAD and put your property back into your name on their records.