Property Records

Knox County property records provide essential documentation for homeowners, investors, and legal professionals navigating real estate transactions, assessments, and tax obligations throughout the county.

Deeds and Ownership Records

Deeds form the foundation of Knox County property records, serving as the legal instruments that document ownership and transfer rights. Common deed types recorded in the county include Warranty Deeds, Trust Deeds, and Quit-Claim Deeds, each offering different levels of guarantee regarding the title’s history and legitimacy. These documents, along with Powers of Attorney and other instruments, are available for lookup through the Knox County Register of Deeds. Retrieval fees are set at $12.00 for documents up to two pages, with an additional $5.00 charged for each extra page. Anyone tracking a property transfer or verifying ownership history should begin with this office, as it maintains the official record of recorded conveyances.

Property Assessments and Liens

Beyond deeds, Knox County property records also encompass assessments and liens that affect a property’s value and marketability. The Knox County Property Assessor, led by Phil Ballard, is responsible for maintaining fair and equitable assessments across the county and can be reached at 400 Main Street, Knoxville, TN 37902, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Property owners can access current and historical values using the Property Lookup tool, which is integrated with KGIS Maps for parcel viewing across multiple map themes. Liens, which may arise from unpaid taxes, contractor claims, or court judgments, are also recorded against a property and can complicate a sale or refinance until resolved.

Transfer Taxes and Fee Calculations

Tax computations tied to property transfers add another layer to the records search process. The property transfer tax is assessed at $0.37 per $100 of value, while mortgage tax applies at $0.115 per $100, with the first $2,000 exempt from this charge. Those estimating costs before filing can use the fee calculator tool provided by the Register of Deeds. For broader property searches, taxation details, and parcel information, the Knox County Property Records and Taxation system offers a centralized resource, though users should note the site’s disclaimer regarding data accuracy and its prohibition on automated data extraction tools.