What is the Recording Notification Service?
Recording Notification Service is a free service offered by the Lake County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller that alerts citizens via email when a document is recorded in their name.
Archives: FAQs
What should I do if I think I may be the victim of property fraud?
Contact the Lake County Sheriff’s Office at 352-343-2101 and your attorney or legal advisor. Neither the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, Property Appraiser, or Tax Collector offices can take legal action on your behalf to reverse the fraudulent activity.
If a document is proven fraudulent, can it be removed from the Official Records?
No document can be removed from the Official Records without a court order. Therefore, citizens are urged to contact local law enforcement and an attorney for prompt, appropriate action if fraud is suspected.
Why do fraudulent documents get recorded?
The Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller must record all documents that meet the requirements outlined in the Florida Statues. The Clerk has no authority to refuse to record a properly prepared document, even if it may be fraudulent.
What can I do to protect myself from property fraud?
Check the Official Records using the Records Search to see what documents are recorded under your name and sign up for Lake County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller’s free Recording Notification Service for automated email alerts when your name is added to the Official Records index. If your property is vacant, check often to make sure it …
How do I know if a sale has been canceled for any reason?
Properties listed on the Foreclosure Sales Calendar will have the word “Canceled” and the reason for the cancelation beside them to indicate that the property is no longer going to a foreclosure sale. The Circuit Civil clerks will make every effort to keep this information current; however, to check for last-minute cancellations, you may wish …
What if I am the highest bidder, and I then choose not to purchase the property for any reason?
If you fail to pay the balance due, you will forfeit your deposit. If you are the highest bidder and you do not honor your bid for any reason, you may be barred from bidding at any future foreclosure sales in Lake County.
How can I be sure that a foreclosed property has a clear title?
For a fee, title companies offer title searches and title insurance. You may also wish to seek legal advice from an attorney. Title companies and attorneys may be found online. The Clerk’s Office does not guarantee a clear title and is not responsible for any encumbrances on the property.
What happens if the sale is set aside?
If you bid at a sale and the sale is set aside for reasons other than Clerk’s error, the Clerk will retain the sale and registry fees earned. A court order will be required for the release of all other funds paid by the successful bidder.
What will my costs be if I am the successful bidder?
If you are the successful bidder, the amount of your bid must be placed in the registry of the court. A Clerk’s fee of 3% of the first $500 and 1.5% of the remainder of your bid will be due on that amount. Also due at this time are the documentary stamps, which are charged …