How do you find out about a property's history? (Scottsdale: for sale, renting)

[divaskychick]

My husband and I are starting to look for a home to buy in Scottsdale after renting since last August. We love it here.

We are studying neighborhoods and have found a house we like but last night we heard a rumor that the house behind the one we like might be a halfway house or something.

I've looked at satellite photos of the house and it does look a mess - the pool is empty and everything in the backyard looks dead, for instance, but it's not for sale. It isn't abandoned, either. There are cars parked in back and in front.

Of course my imagination runs rampant. Is there any way to find out about a property next to one you're considering buying?

I really appreciate thoughtful responses.

[youthinkso]

Try googling the address, if it has been for sale in the last 10 years you might find a listing and info about the buyers. It's a start.

[phx1205]

You can also use the County Assessor's site, which will give you the current owner's name. Tht might be a good place to start.

[bluegrey]

go ahead and give the address here. You will know more than you want to, in an hour or so.

[PNWGuy]

or, go knock on the door and speak to the whoever answers? Should give you a good idea about them

[crystalys]

Originally Posted by phx1205

You can also use the County Assessor's site, which will give you the current owner's name. Tht might be a good place to start.

To expand on this, here is the website:

Default

Just plug in the address to get some info.

Once you have the owner's name you can go to the recorder's website:

Maricopa County Recorder Elections Department

Plug in just the name and it will bring up all the recorded documents pertaining to that owner.

You can always contact your realtor who's job it is to help you get this information.

[wit-nit]

For Parcel information and limited history go to this site and type in the address.
Click here> Default

[TiredOfyycCold]

Also... never hurts to speak with people in the neighborhood. I wouldn't go knocking on people's doors, but if you happen to catch some one out doing yard work or walking a dog, they might be able to offer you some insight into the neighborhood in general and on any neighborhood residents that are "problematic".