How to Find an Old MLS Listing Using Public Records
Uncover historical property information and past listings by navigating public records and accessible resources, even without direct MLS access.
A Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a comprehensive database used by real estate professionals. It provides a centralized platform for brokers to share property listings and compensation offers, streamlining property marketing and sales. While an invaluable tool for licensed agents, direct public access to its complete historical database is restricted. This article guides individuals on how to locate historical property listing information through publicly available channels.
Understanding Public Access to Listing Data
Direct public access to the full historical MLS database is limited due to its proprietary nature and licensing agreements. MLS data is a valuable asset, controlled to serve subscribing real estate professionals. The public cannot directly query these historical records.
However, public real estate platforms aggregate historical listing information. Platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin receive data feeds from MLS systems but do not host the complete historical databases. They provide past sales prices, property descriptions, and sometimes historical photos, offering an incomplete snapshot of a property’s past. The depth of historical data available on these sites can vary, with some information going back to the mid-1990s.
Information Needed for Your Search
Before beginning a search for old MLS listings through public channels, gathering specific property information can significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of your efforts. The full property address is paramount, including the street number, street name, city, state, and zip code. This detailed address helps to precisely identify the property you are researching.
Knowing the approximate dates of interest, such as when the property was last sold or listed, can also help narrow down search results on various platforms. If available, previous owner names can serve as an additional identifier, especially when cross-referencing information across different public records. Each piece of data contributes to creating a more refined search query, leading to more relevant historical information.
Searching Public Real Estate Websites
Publicly accessible real estate websites serve as primary resources for finding historical property information. Platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin aggregate data that can reveal past sales and listing details. To begin, enter the full property address into the search bar on your chosen website.
Upon navigating to the property’s dedicated page, look for sections typically labeled “Property History,” “Sales History,” or “Public Records.” These sections usually present a chronological list of past transactions, including sale dates and prices. You might also find historical listing descriptions, details about the property’s features at the time, and available photographs from previous listings. While these sites offer valuable insights, the availability and completeness of historical data can vary depending on the platform and the age of the listing. For instance, some platforms might not display estimates or update data as frequently once a house is actively listed.
Exploring Other Public Records and Resources
Beyond online real estate portals, several alternative public records and resources can provide historical property information not readily found elsewhere. County tax assessor and recorder’s offices maintain official records of property ownership, sales, and assessed values. These records, which often include deeds and property tax histories, can frequently be accessed online or in person.
Local libraries and historical societies often house archives that can be valuable. These institutions may have collections of old local newspapers, which sometimes contain real estate advertisements, or historical maps and local directories that document property use and ownership over time. While real estate agents have direct MLS access primarily for current transactions, they may occasionally provide limited historical data as a courtesy or draw upon their personal knowledge of local properties. However, this interaction does not grant the public direct access to the MLS database itself.