Horry County, South Carolina, is more than just Myrtle Beach. It’s one of the fastest-growing areas in the state and a major tourist destination. Because of this growth, keeping track of property and land ownership is a big job.
That’s where the Horry County Recorder of Deeds comes in. This office is responsible for recording and maintaining all real property records. Think of it as the official record keeper for who owns what in Horry County. This is vital for ensuring clear property ownership, facilitating legal transactions, and preserving historical documents related to land.
This article will walk you through the ins and outs of the Horry County Recorder of Deeds. We’ll cover everything from how documents are recorded and how you can access those records, to the types of documents they handle, associated fees, and how to get in touch with the office directly.
Recording Processes and Requirements
The Horry County Recorder of Deeds has certain requirements for recording documents. If you don’t follow these guidelines, your documents may be rejected.
Document Submission Guidelines
You’ll need to make sure your documents are in the proper format. If you’re submitting electronically, you’ll need to use the required file format. For paper documents, there are rules about the paper size, margins, and font you use.
The Recorder of Deeds also needs specific information on each document, including:
- Grantor and Grantee information (names and addresses)
- A legal description of the property
- The sale price (consideration)
- A proper notary acknowledgment
Recording Process Overview
Here’s what happens when you submit a document for recording:
- Submission
- Indexing
- Scanning
- Verification
The office aims to process and record documents as quickly as possible, but the turnaround time can vary. You’ll want to contact the office directly to confirm the current estimated timeframe.
Documents are often rejected for reasons such as missing information, improper formatting, or incorrect fees. So, be sure to double-check everything before you submit.
Accessing and Searching Records
The Horry County Recorder of Deeds provides a few ways to search for and access official records.
Online Search Options
You can search for records from your home or office using the Horry County Recorder of Deeds’ official website and online portal. The portal offers a variety of features, allowing you to search, view, and sometimes download recorded documents. Keep in mind that some searches may have limitations, and certain advanced features might require a subscription.
The office also offers searchable indexes and databases. These indexes are typically organized by grantor/grantee (the parties involved in the transaction) or by tract (property location). You can usually search using data fields like name, date range, and property address.
In-Person Access
If you prefer to search in person, the Horry County Recorder of Deeds office provides public access terminals. These computers are available for public use during business hours.
The office staff can offer assistance in locating and retrieving records, although the level of assistance may vary depending on the complexity of your request and the staff’s availability.
The Horry County Recorder of Deeds office is located at [Insert Address Here], and the hours of operation are [Insert Hours Here].
Types of Documents Recorded
The Horry County Register of Deeds Office records and maintains a variety of documents, primarily related to real estate. Here’s a glimpse at some of the most common types:
Real Estate Documents
- Deeds: Deeds are legal documents that transfer ownership of real property from one party to another. There are several types of deeds, including warranty deeds, which offer the greatest protection to the buyer, and quitclaim deeds, which simply transfer whatever interest the seller may have in the property without any guarantees.
- Mortgages and Liens: A mortgage is a loan secured by real property. A lien is a legal claim against a property, often due to unpaid debt. Both mortgages and liens can affect property ownership and the ability to sell or transfer the property.
- Plats and Surveys: Plats are maps showing the layout of a subdivision or other piece of land, including property lines, streets, and easements. Surveys are precise measurements of a property’s boundaries. These documents are essential for defining property lines and any easements affecting the property.
Other Recorded Documents
- Powers of Attorney: A power of attorney is a legal document that authorizes one person (the agent) to act on behalf of another person (the principal). In real estate, a power of attorney might be used to allow someone to sign documents or make decisions related to a property transaction if the owner is unable to do so.
- Easements and Rights-of-Way: An easement grants someone the right to use another person’s property for a specific purpose, such as running a utility line. A right-of-way is a type of easement that allows someone to pass through another person’s property. These documents affect property access and usage.
- UCC Filings: The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) covers a wide range of commercial transactions. UCC filings related to real property often involve fixtures, which are items attached to the property that are treated as personal property rather than real estate.
Fees and Payment Information
The Horry County Register of Deeds charges fees for recording documents. The amount varies depending on the type of document you’re recording. For example, deeds typically have a different fee structure than mortgages or plats.
I can’t provide specific fee amounts because these are subject to change. The best way to get the most up-to-date information is to check the Horry County Government website or contact the Register of Deeds office directly. They usually have a fee schedule posted online or can provide it to you over the phone.
The Horry County Register of Deeds typically accepts several forms of payment, which may include:
- Cash
- Checks (made payable to the Horry County Register of Deeds)
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc. – but check for any processing fees)
Keep in mind that there may be additional fees for services like certified copies of documents or for expedited processing, if available. Again, it’s best to confirm these fees directly with the office.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to look up property owners in SC
Looking up property owners in South Carolina usually involves checking the online records of the county’s Register of Deeds or Assessor’s office. Most counties, including Horry County, offer online search tools where you can search by address, parcel number, or owner’s name to find property information. Keep in mind that some information might be limited due to privacy concerns.
What are the duties of the Register of Deeds?
The Register of Deeds is primarily responsible for recording and maintaining real estate-related documents, like deeds, mortgages, and liens. They ensure these documents are accurately indexed and accessible to the public. They also play a crucial role in preserving historical records and providing certified copies of documents.
How do I get a copy of my property deed in South Carolina?
To obtain a copy of your property deed in South Carolina, you can visit the Horry County Register of Deeds office in person or request a copy online or by mail. You’ll typically need to provide the property address, owner’s name, or parcel number to help them locate the correct document. There may be a fee associated with obtaining certified copies.
In Closing
The Horry County Recorder of Deeds plays a vital role in our community by ensuring that property records are accurate, secure, and readily available to the public. From deeds and mortgages to plats and liens, this office is the central repository for documents that establish and protect property rights within the county.
Whether you’re a property owner, a real estate professional, or simply conducting research, understanding the functions of the Recorder of Deeds is essential. Remember to follow the proper recording procedures, familiarize yourself with the online resources available, and be aware of the applicable fees.
For more information, including details on recording requirements, record search assistance, and fee schedules, please contact the Horry County Recorder of Deeds directly. You can find contact information, including phone numbers, email addresses, and website links, on the Horry County Government website. There, you’ll also find links to other helpful resources related to property ownership and land records in South Carolina.