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Manatee County Clerk and Comptroller officials warn of a solicitation mailer that could end up costing residents more than they pay.
According to a press release sent by officials on Tuesday, Manatee County officials are warning of a private company overcharging residents for copies of their registered deeds.
Officials were alerted to the sender by a Manatee County resident after receiving an official-looking letter in the mail advising them that they could receive a copy of their deed for $89, the news release said.
The letters are sent to new owners by private companies, the press release says, and contain instructions for completing a document and returning it with a check or money order for $89 to Property Records Office LLC.
In case you missed it:Officials warn of fraudulent callers posing as county clerk officials demanding money
In other news:Manatee Commissioners Give Preliminary Approval for Slight Tax Rate Reduction as Property Values Rise
“While the service provided by this company is not illegal, it is unnecessary,” the press release said.
Homeowners can get a copy of their deed by contacting the Manatee County Clerk and Comptroller’s Office by calling 941-741-4045 and stopping by the office. Hard copies of documents cost $1 per page and $2 for certification.
Owners can also visit the website, www.ManateeClerk.com, and download a free copy of their deed through the public records hub.
Officials are encouraging landlords and property owners to also sign up for Online Real Estate Fraud Alerts, a service provided free of charge by the Clerk’s Office. Real Estate Fraud Alerts notify residents whenever a statement, lease, mortgage or lien is registered in official county records, the news release said.
Gabriela Szymanowska covers the legal system for the Herald-Tribune in partnership with Report for America. You can support his work with a tax-deductible donation to Report for America. Contact Gabriela Szymanowska at gszymanowska@gannett.com, or on Twitter.
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