Real Property Records Pathfinder

This pathfinder will direct you to the most useful sources for real property records (deeds and mortgages for private properties). Follow the timeline to the era in which you believe the property of interest was conveyed or mortgaged from one party to another.

Researchers should note that during the colonial period and late 18^th and early 19^th centuries, much of the land in the Hudson River valley was leased rather than owned by residents, meaning that deeds were not necessary. If the property of interest lay within in present-day Albany or Rensselaer County, there may be records of the leases of that property in the Van Rensselaer Manor Papers held by the New York State Library—Manuscripts & Special Collections Unit. 

Researchers should likewise note that real property can also be transferred by will. If that type of transfer took place, there will be no deed. For assistance in locating wills and related records, see the State Archives Probate Pathfinder.