This specific combination of address, town, state, document type, and year refers to a particular real estate document pertaining to a property located at 249 Hope Street in Bristol, Rhode Island. Such a record likely contains vital information about the property’s ownership, transactions, legal descriptions, and potentially assessed value during that specific time period. It serves as a historical snapshot of the property’s status in 1990.
Accessing this type of documentation is crucial for various purposes. Title searches, historical research, property valuation assessments, and legal disputes often require examination of these records. They provide verifiable information about the chain of ownership, past transactions, and any encumbrances, offering valuable insights for current owners, potential buyers, or researchers interested in the property’s history. This specific document helps establish a point of reference in the property’s timeline, offering a glimpse into its status three decades ago.
Understanding the context and relevance of this record provides a foundation for further exploration of related topics, including property law, Rhode Island real estate trends in the late 20th century, and the broader field of archival research.
1. Property Ownership
Property ownership lies at the heart of the 1990 record for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI. This document definitively establishes the legal owner of the property at that specific point in time. Determining ownership is fundamental for any subsequent transaction, legal action, or historical research related to the property. The record likely identifies the owner’s name, and possibly contact information as it existed in 1990. This information can be crucial for tracing lineage, understanding historical land transactions, or settling disputes related to inheritance or prior agreements. For instance, if the property was subsequently sold, the 1990 record would serve as a key piece of evidence in verifying the seller’s right to convey ownership.
Further analysis of the ownership details within the record might reveal whether the property was owned by an individual, a corporation, or a trust. This distinction can provide valuable context for understanding the property’s use and its role within the community. A corporate owner might suggest commercial use, while individual ownership might indicate residential use. Examining changes in ownership over time, by comparing the 1990 record with subsequent records, can reveal patterns of property transfer and development within Bristol. Such insights can be valuable for urban planning, historical preservation efforts, or real estate market analysis.
In summary, establishing property ownership through the 1990 record is essential for legal clarity and historical understanding. It forms the foundation for any further investigation into the property’s past, present, and future. While accessing historical records can be challenging due to record-keeping practices of the time, the information contained within the 1990 document remains a cornerstone for any serious inquiry regarding 249 Hope St.
2. Transaction History
The 1990 property record for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI, provides a crucial window into its transaction history. This component of the record details all documented transfers of ownership, including dates of sale, sale prices, and parties involved in each transaction up to that point in 1990. Analyzing this history can reveal patterns of ownership, property value fluctuations over time, and potential influences of broader market trends on this specific property. For instance, a series of rapid transactions at increasing prices might suggest a period of speculative investment in the area. Conversely, a long period of single ownership might indicate stable residential use. Understanding these historical transactions provides essential context for assessing the property’s current market value and predicting potential future trends.
The transaction history also serves as a vital tool for verifying clear title and identifying potential encumbrances or liens. For example, a previously undocumented easement or lien discovered within the historical transactions could significantly impact current ownership rights and responsibilities. This underscores the practical significance of a thorough examination of the transaction history during any due diligence process related to property acquisition or legal disputes. Imagine a scenario where a property was sold in 1985, but the 1990 record revealed an unresolved lien from a previous owner. This information would be critical for current owners and potential buyers, potentially preventing future legal complications. Such real-world examples demonstrate the tangible benefits of accessing and understanding the transaction history contained within the 1990 record.
In conclusion, the transaction history within the 1990 record is more than a simple list of past sales. It offers a rich narrative of the property’s journey through time, revealing market influences, ownership patterns, and potential legal complexities. While accessing and interpreting historical records can present challenges due to variations in record-keeping practices over time, the insights gleaned from this section of the 1990 document provide invaluable information for legal professionals, researchers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the property’s past. This understanding informs current decisions and contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the property’s place within the broader context of Bristol’s real estate landscape.
3. Legal Description
The legal description within the 1990 property record for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI, provides a precise and unambiguous identification of the property’s boundaries. Unlike the street address, which serves a practical purpose for locating and identifying the property in everyday use, the legal description offers a legally binding definition of the property’s physical extent. This description is crucial for distinguishing the property from adjacent parcels and preventing boundary disputes. It forms a cornerstone for all legal transactions and documentation related to the property.
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Metes and Bounds
This traditional method of land description uses physical features, directions, and distances to define property boundaries. A metes and bounds description might reference natural landmarks like trees or rivers, or artificial markers like fences or roads, as starting points. It then specifies distances and directions to outline the property’s perimeter. For 249 Hope St, the 1990 record might include a metes and bounds description inherited from historical records, providing a connection to the property’s historical boundaries. This historical context can be crucial for resolving long-standing boundary disputes or understanding how the property’s boundaries have evolved over time.
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Lot and Block System
This system, commonly used in planned developments and subdivisions, divides land into numbered lots within designated blocks. The 1990 record would likely specify the lot and block number for 249 Hope St, referencing a recorded plat map. This simplifies property identification and allows for easy referencing within the broader context of the subdivision. Understanding the lot and block designation allows for easy comparison with neighboring properties within the same development and simplifies the process of locating the property on official maps.
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Reference to a Plat Map or Survey
The legal description may refer to a specific recorded plat map or survey. These documents provide a visual representation of the property’s boundaries and its relationship to surrounding parcels. The reference to a plat map or survey in the 1990 record allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the property’s location and dimensions. Accessing these referenced documents can offer additional details, such as easements, rights-of-way, or encroachments, not explicitly mentioned within the written legal description itself.
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Government Rectangular Survey System
While less common in the eastern United States, the 1990 record might use the Public Land Survey System (PLSS) if the property’s history traces back to original land grants. This system divides land into townships, ranges, and sections, providing a standardized method for describing location. While less likely for a property in Rhode Island, the presence of a PLSS description would offer valuable insight into the property’s historical origins and connection to the broader national land survey system.
The legal description in the 1990 record for 249 Hope St serves as the definitive legal identifier of the property. Understanding its components, whether metes and bounds, lot and block, or reference to a plat, is crucial for any legal transaction, boundary dispute resolution, or historical research related to the property. This seemingly technical detail acts as a linchpin connecting the physical property to its legal identity, ensuring clarity and preventing ambiguity in all matters concerning ownership and boundaries within the framework of Bristol’s historical records. By understanding the nuances of the legal description, one gains a deeper appreciation for the legal framework surrounding property ownership and its historical context within the community.
4. Assessed Value
The assessed value, a key component of the 1990 property record for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI, represents the property’s estimated worth determined by the local taxing authority for the purpose of calculating property taxes. This value, distinct from market value (the price a property might fetch in a sale), reflects the municipality’s appraisal based on factors like location, size, condition, and comparable properties. The 1990 assessed value provides a historical snapshot of the property’s perceived worth within the local tax framework of that specific time. This historical data point contributes to understanding long-term property value trends within Bristol and can be used in conjunction with subsequent years’ assessments to analyze patterns of appreciation or depreciation. Consider, for instance, how comparing the 1990 assessed value with assessments from 1980 and 2000 could illuminate the impact of local economic changes or development projects on property values in the area.
Understanding the assessed value within the 1990 record offers several practical applications. First, it allows for an analysis of historical property tax burdens. By comparing the assessed value with the corresponding tax rate in 1990, one can determine the actual property tax levied on the property during that year. This information can be valuable for historical research, economic analysis, or understanding the historical financial context of property ownership in Bristol. Second, the assessed value serves as a benchmark for understanding changes in property values over time. By comparing the 1990 assessed value with more recent assessments, one can observe trends in property appreciation or depreciation, providing valuable data for real estate market analysis. For example, a significant increase in assessed value between 1990 and 2000 might indicate a period of rapid growth and development in the area surrounding 249 Hope St. Conversely, a stable or declining assessed value could reflect stagnation or economic downturn within the local market.
In summary, the assessed value within the 1990 property record for 249 Hope St is a critical data point for understanding the property’s historical value within the context of the local tax system. While not directly reflecting market value, the assessed value offers valuable insights for historical analysis, tax burden comparisons, and understanding long-term property value trends in Bristol. Accessing and interpreting this information can be challenging due to potential changes in assessment methodologies over time. However, understanding the context and limitations of the assessed value enhances its utility as a historical marker, providing a foundational element for comprehensive property research and analysis. This seemingly simple figure offers a glimpse into the property’s financial past and its relationship to the broader economic forces shaping Bristol’s real estate landscape.
5. Encumbrances
The 1990 property record for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI, may reveal encumbrances, which are claims, liens, charges, or liabilities attached to the property that can restrict its free and clear ownership. Understanding any encumbrances associated with this property in 1990 is crucial for historical research, legal clarity, and assessing potential risks for past or future transactions. The presence or absence of encumbrances significantly impacts the property’s marketability and its value. Their identification is a critical component of due diligence for anyone interested in the property’s historical or current status.
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Mortgages
A mortgage is a loan secured by real estate, creating a lien against the property. The 1990 record might indicate an outstanding mortgage, identifying the lender, loan amount, and terms. This information is essential for understanding the property’s financial history and potential obligations associated with its ownership at that time. For example, a large outstanding mortgage in 1990 could suggest the owner was highly leveraged, potentially influencing their decisions regarding property maintenance or sale. The presence of a mortgage also highlights the lender’s legal interest in the property.
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Liens
Liens represent legal claims against a property, often arising from unpaid debts. The 1990 record could disclose various liens, such as tax liens, mechanic’s liens (for unpaid construction work), or judgment liens (resulting from court judgments). A tax lien in 1990, for instance, would indicate delinquent property taxes, potentially impacting the property’s title and creating a liability for the owner. Uncovering such liens is crucial for understanding the property’s legal standing and potential financial obligations attached to it in the past.
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Easements
Easements grant specific rights to use another person’s property for a defined purpose. The 1990 record might document easements, such as a right-of-way allowing a neighbor to cross the property to access their own land, or a utility easement granting a utility company access for maintenance. An easement documented in 1990, like a shared driveway easement, could affect how the property could be used and developed, impacting both its value and potential future use. Understanding these easements is crucial for clarifying property rights and avoiding potential disputes.
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Restrictive Covenants
Restrictive covenants impose limitations on property use, often established by developers to maintain consistency within a neighborhood. The 1990 record might detail covenants governing architectural style, building materials, or permitted land uses. For example, a covenant restricting building height, documented in 1990, could limit future development options for the property, impacting its potential value and influencing its long-term development trajectory within the neighborhood.
Analyzing encumbrances within the 1990 property record for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI, provides essential insights into the property’s historical legal and financial status. These encumbrances, whether mortgages, liens, easements, or covenants, represent critical factors influencing ownership rights, property value, and potential future use. Uncovering these details through a thorough examination of the record helps reconstruct the property’s past, providing valuable context for current decisions related to ownership, development, or legal disputes. While accessing and interpreting these historical records can be challenging, understanding the nuances of encumbrances enhances the value of the 1990 record as a powerful tool for historical research, legal due diligence, and informed decision-making regarding the property.
6. Tax Information
The 1990 property record for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI, inherently connects to tax information relevant to the property during that year. This tax information provides valuable insights into the property’s financial history, its relationship to local governance, and potential liabilities. Examining these details allows for a deeper understanding of the property’s past and its connection to the broader fiscal landscape of Bristol in 1990.
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Property Tax Assessments
The record likely reflects the property’s assessed value for 1990, the basis for calculating property taxes. This assessment, determined by the local taxing authority, provides a historical snapshot of the property’s perceived worth for taxation purposes. Comparing this assessed value with those of subsequent years can reveal trends in property valuation within Bristol and inform analyses of local market fluctuations. A significant increase or decrease in assessed value between 1990 and subsequent years might reflect changing market conditions, local development initiatives, or shifts in property use.
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Tax Rates and Levies
The 1990 tax information may include the applicable municipal and possibly county tax rates. Combining these rates with the assessed value reveals the actual property tax levied on 249 Hope St in 1990. This information can be used to understand the historical tax burden on the property and compare it with current tax obligations. This historical data can inform discussions about local tax policy and its impact on property owners over time.
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Tax Payment History
The record might indicate whether property taxes were paid on time in 1990. Evidence of delinquent taxes, such as a recorded tax lien, signals potential financial distress associated with the property during that period. Such information is crucial for understanding the property’s financial history and assessing potential risks associated with past ownership. Delinquent taxes could impact the property’s title and create complications for future transactions.
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Special Assessments
The 1990 record may reveal any special assessments levied against the property. Special assessments are typically imposed to fund specific public improvements that benefit the property, such as new roads, sewers, or sidewalks. The presence of special assessments offers insights into public infrastructure projects undertaken in the vicinity of 249 Hope St during that period and their associated costs for property owners. These assessments provide valuable contextual information for understanding the historical development of the neighborhood and the distribution of infrastructure improvement costs.
The tax information within the 1990 property record offers a valuable lens through which to examine the property’s financial and legal standing during that year. This data, combined with other elements within the record, provides a more complete understanding of the property’s history, its relationship to the local community, and its potential future trajectory. While accessing and interpreting historical tax records can present challenges, the insights gained contribute significantly to a comprehensive analysis of 249 Hope St within its historical context.
7. Building Permits
Building permits represent official authorization granted by the local government for construction, renovation, or demolition work on a property. Examining building permits associated with 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI, within the context of its 1990 property record, provides crucial insights into the property’s physical evolution and its adherence to building codes and regulations prevalent during that period. This connection between building permits and the property record establishes a verifiable history of structural changes, additions, or demolitions, contributing significantly to a comprehensive understanding of the property’s development over time. A building permit issued in 1990 for an addition, for example, would legally document that modification and offer insights into the property’s size and layout during that period. The absence of permits for apparent modifications raises questions about unpermitted work, potentially impacting the property’s value and legal standing.
The practical implications of understanding this connection are substantial. For potential buyers, reviewing building permits associated with the 1990 record can reveal the legality of past renovations and ensure compliance with building codes. This due diligence can prevent future complications arising from unpermitted work. Imagine a scenario where a previous owner added a sunroom without obtaining the necessary permits. This seemingly minor oversight could lead to legal and financial liabilities for subsequent owners. For historical researchers, building permits offer a tangible record of structural changes, helping to reconstruct the property’s physical appearance and function over time. This information contributes to a richer understanding of the property’s historical narrative and its place within the evolving architectural landscape of Bristol. For example, a series of building permits for renovations in the late 1980s might reflect a period of revitalization and investment in the neighborhood.
In summary, exploring building permits within the framework of the 1990 property record for 249 Hope St provides valuable insights into its physical transformation over time. This analysis offers critical information for potential buyers, legal professionals, and historical researchers. While accessing historical building permit records can be challenging due to variations in record-keeping practices, the information they contain strengthens the 1990 record’s role as a comprehensive document of the property’s past. Understanding this connection contributes significantly to a more nuanced and informed perspective on the property’s evolution within its historical and legal context.
8. Zoning Regulations
Zoning regulations, implemented by local governments, dictate land use and building specifications within specific districts. The 1990 property record for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI, exists within the context of zoning regulations effective during that period. Understanding these regulations is crucial for interpreting the permissible uses of the property in 1990 and how they may have influenced its development. Zoning regulations provide a framework for understanding the property’s historical context within Bristol’s urban planning landscape and offer insights into potential limitations or opportunities for its past and future use. Examining these regulations provides a deeper understanding of the property’s legal constraints and possibilities within its surrounding environment.
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Permitted Uses
Zoning regulations define the permitted uses within a specific zone. The 1990 record, when considered alongside applicable zoning regulations, reveals whether 249 Hope St was designated for residential, commercial, industrial, or mixed-use purposes during that time. This designation directly impacted the property’s function and its potential value. For instance, a residential zoning designation would preclude commercial activities, while a commercial designation might permit a wider range of uses. Understanding these permitted uses is essential for evaluating the property’s historical compliance with zoning regulations and assessing potential conflicts or discrepancies. Imagine the 1990 record indicating residential use while the zoning designated the area for commercial purposes; this discrepancy could reveal non-conforming use, potentially impacting the property’s legal status.
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Setback Requirements
Setback regulations dictate the minimum distance between buildings and property lines. The 1990 zoning regulations, in conjunction with the property record, provide insights into the required setbacks for 249 Hope St. These regulations influenced the property’s development potential, limiting the size and placement of structures. Examining these historical setback requirements contributes to understanding the constraints on building size and placement in 1990. For instance, a large setback requirement might limit the potential footprint of a new building or restrict the feasibility of expanding existing structures. This information provides crucial context for evaluating past development decisions and informing potential future projects.
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Height Restrictions
Zoning regulations often impose height restrictions on buildings within specific zones. The 1990 regulations applicable to 249 Hope St would have dictated the maximum allowable height for any structures on the property. This information is crucial for understanding the limitations on vertical development and how they shaped the property’s physical appearance and its relationship to surrounding buildings. Height restrictions could have limited the potential for adding additional stories or significantly altering the property’s profile. These constraints provide valuable insights into the historical development context of the property and inform future architectural plans.
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Density Regulations
Density regulations control the number of dwelling units or the amount of floor space permitted per unit of land area. The 1990 zoning regulations, viewed in conjunction with the property record, reveal the applicable density restrictions for 249 Hope St. These regulations influenced the intensity of development permitted on the property, potentially impacting its use and value. For example, a low-density zoning designation might restrict the number of dwelling units allowed, while a high-density designation could permit multi-family dwellings or larger commercial structures. Understanding these density regulations contributes to a deeper understanding of the historical context of the property’s development and informs future planning decisions.
By understanding the interplay between zoning regulations and the 1990 property record for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI, one gains a comprehensive perspective on the property’s historical context, permissible uses, and development constraints. These regulations, reflecting the local government’s urban planning vision in 1990, shaped the property’s development trajectory and its relationship to the surrounding community. While zoning regulations can change over time, the 1990 regulations offer a valuable historical benchmark for understanding the property’s past and informing future development decisions within the broader context of Bristol’s evolving urban landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding property records, specifically focusing on the context of a 1990 record for a property like 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI. Clarity on these points is crucial for informed decision-making and historical research.
Question 1: How does one access a historical property record, such as the one from 1990 for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI?
Accessing historical property records typically involves contacting the Bristol, RI Town Clerk’s office or the appropriate local records repository. Online databases may also offer access to digitized records, depending on availability and digitization efforts.
Question 2: What information is typically included in a 1990 property record?
A 1990 property record generally includes ownership details, legal description, transaction history, assessed value, tax information, and potentially details on encumbrances like mortgages or liens. Building permits and zoning information may be accessible through related municipal records.
Question 3: Why is the 1990 record relevant to the property’s current status?
The 1990 record establishes a historical baseline for understanding the property’s chain of ownership, past transactions, and potential encumbrances. This information is crucial for legal due diligence, title searches, and resolving boundary disputes.
Question 4: How might zoning regulations from 1990 affect the property today?
Zoning regulations applicable in 1990 provide context for understanding the property’s historically permitted uses and potential development restrictions. While zoning regulations can change, past designations can impact current development options and property use.
Question 5: What is the difference between assessed value and market value in the context of a 1990 record?
Assessed value, determined by the municipality for tax purposes, represents the property’s estimated worth for taxation in 1990. Market value, however, reflects the price the property might have commanded in a sale during that period. These values are distinct but interrelated.
Question 6: How can one determine if there were any building permits issued for the property in 1990?
Contacting the Bristol, RI building department or the relevant local authority responsible for issuing permits provides access to historical building permit records. These records document authorized construction or renovation activities on the property.
Accessing and interpreting historical property records requires careful consideration of record-keeping practices and potential variations over time. Consulting with local officials or legal professionals can provide additional guidance.
Understanding the nuances of historical property records equips individuals with essential information for informed decision-making related to property ownership, transactions, and historical research.
Tips for Utilizing Historical Property Records
Careful examination of historical property records, such as the 1990 record for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI, offers valuable insights for various purposes. These tips provide guidance for maximizing the utility of such records.
Tip 1: Verify Data Accuracy: Cross-reference information found within the record with other sources, such as subsequent property records, tax assessor databases, or historical maps. This helps ensure data integrity and mitigates potential inaccuracies due to historical record-keeping practices.
Tip 2: Understand Context: Consider the historical period of the record. Research prevailing economic conditions, local development trends, and relevant legal frameworks in Bristol, RI, circa 1990 to interpret the record within its proper historical context. For example, understanding the local real estate market trends in 1990 provides context for the property’s assessed value.
Tip 3: Consult Professionals: Seek guidance from title examiners, real estate attorneys, or historical researchers when interpreting complex legal descriptions, historical transactions, or encumbrances. Professional expertise ensures accurate analysis and mitigates potential misinterpretations.
Tip 4: Preserve Original Documents: Handle original documents with care to prevent damage. If working with digital copies, ensure secure storage and backup. Preserving these records safeguards valuable historical information.
Tip 5: Respect Privacy: Be mindful of privacy concerns when accessing and sharing historical property records. Redact sensitive personal information when necessary and adhere to ethical research practices.
Tip 6: Document Research: Maintain detailed records of research activities, including sources consulted, dates of access, and relevant findings. Systematic documentation ensures research transparency and facilitates future reference.
Tip 7: Connect with Local Resources: Utilize local historical societies, libraries, or municipal archives in Bristol, RI, for additional contextual information. Local resources often possess unique insights and specialized knowledge regarding the property’s history and surrounding community.
Following these tips ensures effective use of historical property records, yielding valuable information for legal due diligence, historical research, and informed decision-making.
By employing these strategies, individuals can unlock the rich historical narratives embedded within property records, gaining valuable perspectives on property ownership, community development, and the passage of time.
Conclusion
Examination of the 1990 property record for 249 Hope St, Bristol, RI, reveals a wealth of information pertinent to the property’s historical status. Analysis of ownership details, transaction history, legal descriptions, assessed value, encumbrances, tax information, building permits, and applicable zoning regulations provides a comprehensive understanding of the property’s legal standing, financial history, and physical evolution within its surrounding community during that specific period. This detailed record serves as a crucial resource for legal professionals, researchers, and individuals seeking a deeper understanding of the property’s past.
Accessing and interpreting historical property records offers valuable insights into the complex interplay of legal frameworks, financial transactions, and community development over time. Such meticulous examination contributes to a richer understanding of individual properties within their broader historical context, fostering informed decision-making and contributing to the preservation of community history. Continued exploration of these records promises to illuminate further connections between individual properties and the evolving narrative of Bristol’s past.
