If you're buying or selling property in New York City, ACRIS (Automated City Register Information System) is an essential tool for researching ownership history, mortgages, and financial claims. Managed by the NYC Department of Finance, ACRIS provides access to public property records in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx (Staten Island has a separate system).

For home buyers, using ACRIS can prevent surprises like hidden liens or ownership disputes. For real estate agents, ACRIS ensures accurate property history, helping clients make informed decisions.

What Can You Find on ACRIS?

ACRIS gives access to important property-related documents, including:

- Deeds – Legal proof of property ownership
- Mortgages & Mortgage Satisfactions – Records of loans and payments
- Liens & Judgments – Financial claims against a property
- Real Estate Transfers – Sale records and ownership changes
- Tax Records & UCC Filings – Business and financial documents tied to a property

ACRIS homepage on the department of finance website

How to Use ACRIS for Property Research

Using ACRIS is free and available online. Follow these steps to research NYC properties:

1. Visit the ACRIS Website

Go to www.nyc.gov/acris or search “NYC ACRIS” online.

2. Click on ‘Search Property Records’

You’ll be given different search options:

By Property Address (most common)
By Owner Name
By Document Type (Deed, Mortgage, Lien, etc.)
By Borough and Block/Lot Number (BBL)

3. Review Property Documents

Click on a record to view details, such as:

Sale price and date
Loan and mortgage details
Outstanding liens or judgments

Why Home Buyers Should Use ACRIS

For buyers, ACRIS helps answer key questions:

- Who actually owns the property? – Confirm that the seller has legal ownership.
- Are there outstanding debts? – Check for liens or unpaid mortgages before making an offer.
- What’s the property’s transaction history? – Review past sales and price trends.

By checking ACRIS before buying, you avoid potential legal and financial surprises.

How Real Estate Agents Can Use ACRIS

For real estate professionals, ACRIS is an essential verification tool. Agents use it to:

- Confirm ownership details – Prevent fraudulent or misrepresented sales.
- Check mortgage and tax records – Understand financial history before listing a property.
- Prepare for closings – Ensure no outstanding claims that could delay a sale.

Common Mistakes to Avoid on ACRIS

🚨 Incorrect Spelling or Address Format – NYC street names can be tricky! Use exact formats.

🚨 Not Checking for Liens – Even if a property looks clear, past debts might still exist.
🚨 Ignoring Document Dates – Make sure you're looking at the latest records.

What If You Need Help Interpreting ACRIS Records?

While ACRIS is a powerful tool, some records contain complex legal language. If you're unsure about liens, deeds, or mortgage filings, consult:

- A real estate attorney – For legal interpretations and closing assistance.
- A title company – To verify clear ownership before purchasing.
- Your real estate agent – For insights on transaction history.

After Closing: Moving Into Your New Home?

Once your home purchase is complete, it’s time to plan your move. Cool Hand Movers works with home buyers, sellers, and real estate agents to provide stress-free moving services across NYC.

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