recorder
Mike Doran
Recording the Future, Protecting the Past
recorder
Mike Doran
Recording the Future, Protecting the Past
How Can We Help You?
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AlertME
Property Alerts
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Property Alerts
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Property Alerts
TM
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protecting your investment against property fraud
What is RecordALERT™?
RecordALERT™ is a free automated program provided by the Lorain County Recorder that keeps you informed on your property: get alerts whenever documents with your name are filed.
Do you own property in Lorain County? Are you buying or selling a home? Is your property vacant? Worried about scams? Sign up for RecordALERT™ today!
Lorain County Recorder's Property Alert Program
Powered by AlertMe
Stay one step ahead of property fraud.
The Property Alert Program is a free automated service offered by the Recorder’s office. After signing up and choosing the names you’d like to monitor, you’ll receive an email notification whenever a document is recorded in our office under those names.
By clicking on the button below, you will be redirected to DTS' AlertMe site.
Alertme instructions
After clicking the button:
- Enter your email
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First & Last Name
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Password
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Cell phone number if you would like a text alert.
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Click Register
Remember to Log into AlertMe & set up notifications after receiving activation email!
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Go to your email and click on activation link
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Log into AlertMe
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Enter Names that you would like to receive notification alerts for
Free & Easy
There's no charge, and you can sign up in minutes.
Stay Alert
Know if anything happens to your property (without your permission).
Peace of Mind
Sleep soundly knowing you're protected.
What is Property Fraud?
Property fraud, often called “deed theft” or “house stealing,” is a white-collar crime where scammers fraudulently transfer a property’s title or steal home equity by forging documents, impersonating owners, or using stolen identities. It involves falsifying public records to make it appear as if the fraudster owns the home.
high risk properties
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Vacant due to delinquent taxes
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Vacant due to death of tenant
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Vacant due to unestablished survivorship
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Rental homes
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Homes newly listed for sale
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Vacated by “snowbirds”
how the lorain county recorder fights for you
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We bring attention to this issue through outreach and community engagement.
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We enroll property owners in the automated alert program
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We refer fraud complaints to the Prosecutor for investigation.
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The ORA (Ohio Recorder’s Association) works with the state legislature, community partners such as realtors and title companies, and other government offices to find solutions to the growing property fraud problem.
The property transfer process
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Deed is Prepared: by a qualified attorney or title company.
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Title Search: title company investigates the property history.
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Closing: buyer and seller finalize the transaction (exchange funds, keys, and documents), often handled by a title company.
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Local Government Steps:
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Deed goes to the Auditor
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Tax Map verifies its legal description
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Transfer Department transfers deed owner, stamps it with time and date
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Recorder’s Office makes the ownership change official public record
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The Recorder is the vital last step
We do not prepare paperwork or offer legal advice; we permanently record your property deed, protecting it for the future, and making it accessible to attorneys, banks, and title companies.