Hanlon: Don’t pay scammers for overpriced deed copies
Monmouth County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon is once again warning Monmouth County residents that there is no need to pay a private service $89 for a copy of their property deed.
Hanlon’s office received several calls from confused homeowners who received letter solicitations last month looking to charge $89 for certified copies of deeds. These homeowners expressed concern that the letters contained misleading or incorrect property information. The mail solicitations are crafted to appear as though they are from a legitimate government agency.
Hanlon is encouraging property owners to contact the County Clerk’s Office if they have questions regarding these letters by calling 732-431-7324. In addition, Hanlon advises homeowners that they can obtain a copy of their deeds for a minimal fee from the County Clerk’s Office.
“Residential and commercial property owners can request and receive a copy of their deed, and other property documents, directly from the Monmouth County Clerk’s Office,” said Hanlon.
A homeowner can obtain a plain copy for .05 cents per page at the Monmouth County Clerk’s Office or at no charge electronically from the County Clerk’s land records website. If a homeowner would like the Clerk’s Office to provide a certified copy, it is $10 for the certification, and $1.50 per page.
Homeowners may wish to have a copy of their property deed in the event of an emergency or if they want to have their affairs in order for their children or heirs. Certified and regular copies of property records are available from the County Clerk’s Office at low cost.
Homeowners who are interested in obtaining a certified copy of their deed in person should visit the Monmouth County Clerk’s Office located at 33 Mechanic St., Freehold, NJ, 07728. The Mortgage and Deed Room can be found on the first floor, and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.