ROD
Sheriff’s Deeds – Payoffs and Redemptions
We handle Redemptions during the redemption period. We cannot calculate payoff amounts, but we can provide a copy of the affidavit of redemption (for a fee) which includes the per diem amount for your own calculation.
Any redemption of a foreclosure must be received in certified or cashier’s funds by 5:00 p.m. on the last day of the redemption period.
Where are Sheriff’s Sales Held?
Sales are held at 10:00 a.m. each Thursday on the second floor of the historical courthouse. For info, contact (269) 467-5552 on Thursdays between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. to speak to the deputy sheriff.
Can I get genealogy information?
Yes. Be prepared for heavy lifting as some records are in large books. Plan for several hours. Copies are $1.00 per page. Independent searchers are available for a fee:
Martha Starmann
116 W. Chicago Road, White Pigeon, MI 49099
(269) 483-7122
How do I find who owns certain property?
If you do not know the name, contact the Land Resource Centre or Treasurer’s Office. They can provide names from the tax roll, which you can then use to search our recorded land records.
Why is there a 2½ inch top margin requirement?
Per state law (April 1, 1997), this space is required to allow room for recording information, transfer tax stamps, and official seals.
How do I search for a deed?
You need a grantor or grantee name and an approximate transaction year. Recent transactions may be searched by tax ID. The best way to search is in person; our staff will demonstrate how to use the computer system or card files.
Who can get a copy of my deed?
Anyone; they are public record. There is a charge of $1.00 per page.
When an instrument is recorded that legally removes the name of an owner, will I receive a new document showing the current owners?
No. The Register of Deeds is a recording office only. We do not draft new documents to reflect changes in ownership status.
My spouse passed away and our property is in both of our names, what do I do?
Bring in a certified copy of the death certificate along with appropriate recording fees and we will record it.
How do I put someone’s name on my deed or take someone’s name off?
You need to have an attorney draft a deed for you, then bring it to our office for recording. Please consult an attorney regarding the legal implications (divorce, loans, etc.) of adding or removing names.
What documents have to be tax certified?
All warranty deeds, deeds containing a covenant of warrant, land contracts, and assignments of land contract containing a covenant of warrant must have a tax certification from the County Treasurer’s office. The fee is $5.00 for unlimited descriptions.
What if I need my document back the same day?
No, we cannot record your document on the same day. However, you may request the SWIFT option to receive an electronic copy via email immediately after recording, before the paper copy is mailed.
How long before I get my document returned to me?
If the customer/attorney hand-delivered the document or sent it via mail, it takes approximately 2-3 days. If it came through a title company or bank, it will be returned to them in 2-3 days; it is then up to that institution when they return it to you.
Can I record my deed or other documents by mail?
Yes, documents can be either mailed or brought in to the office for recording.
Can I record a copy of my deed?
No, only the original documents can be recorded.
Where can I find a notary?
Financial institutions, credit unions, funeral homes, title companies, realtors, automobile dealerships, and many other businesses. There may be a fee for the notary’s services.
Does the document need to be witnessed and notarized?
Documents executed in the state of Michigan prior to March 4, 2002 must have the signatures and printed names of two witnesses. After March 4, 2002, no witnesses are required, only a notary. The documents must be notarized with the notary showing their printed name, county/state of commission and expiration date.
Can you prepare my document, or give me the forms to use?
No, the Register of Deeds does not prepare any legal document, nor do we give legal advice. Forms may be obtained from an office supply company. If you need assistance, please contact an attorney or a real estate agent.
Where is the Register of Deeds located?
The street address is 125 W. Main Street (M-86), Centreville, Michigan 49032, in the St. Joseph County Historical Courthouse. The Register of Deeds office is located on the 2nd floor of the building.
What are the recording fees?
The recording fee for a deed, mortgage, lis pendens or other real estate instrument is $30.00. Any document which assigns or discharges more than one instrument, $3.00 shall be added to the recording fee for each additional instrument being assigned or discharged. For more detail, please view the Recording of Documents page.
What are the hours of the Register of Deeds Office?
The office is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Real and personal property documents presented after 4:00 p.m. may be recorded or filed on the following working day. Please check for holidays that the office is closed.