9+ Mathews County, VA Property Records & Deeds


9+ Mathews County, VA Property Records & Deeds

Real estate documentation in Mathews County, Virginia, encompasses a wide range of information, including deeds, titles, mortgages, liens, assessments, and other legally recorded instruments related to land and property ownership. These documents provide a detailed history of each parcel, outlining ownership changes, legal descriptions, and encumbrances. For instance, a deed would specify the transfer of ownership from one party to another, while a mortgage would document a loan secured by the property.

Access to this information offers significant advantages for various purposes. Title searches, conducted during real estate transactions, rely heavily on these records to verify ownership and uncover potential issues. Historical researchers can trace property ownership back through generations, providing valuable insights into local history and genealogy. Furthermore, property assessments, derived from these records, play a crucial role in determining property taxes, which fund essential county services. The meticulous maintenance of these records ensures transparency and safeguards property rights within the community.

This understanding of the nature and significance of documented property information in Mathews County provides a foundation for exploring specific topics related to property research, ownership, and transactions. Further sections will delve into accessing these records, understanding their legal implications, and utilizing them effectively for various purposes.

1. Ownership History

Ownership history forms a cornerstone of Mathews County property records. It provides a chronological account of every individual or entity that has held title to a specific parcel of land. This documented chain of ownership, traceable through recorded deeds and other legal instruments, establishes a clear lineage of property rights. Establishing this lineage is crucial for verifying current ownership, resolving boundary disputes, and understanding past land use. For example, discovering a previous owner’s mineral rights agreement could significantly impact a current owner’s development plans. Similarly, awareness of historical easements or rights-of-way can prevent future legal conflicts.

Examining ownership history offers practical applications beyond legal matters. Historical researchers utilize these records to trace family lineages and understand community development patterns. Environmental assessments can benefit from understanding past land uses, potentially revealing past contamination or ecological changes. Moreover, property appraisers use ownership history, along with other factors, to determine current market value. This historical context provides a richer understanding of a property’s present status and potential future value. A break in the chain of title, for instance, could indicate unresolved legal issues requiring further investigation.

In conclusion, the meticulous documentation of ownership history within Mathews County property records provides essential information for a range of purposes. It safeguards property rights, facilitates informed decision-making in real estate transactions, and offers invaluable insights for historical, environmental, and legal research. Understanding the complexities of ownership history allows individuals and organizations to navigate property matters with greater clarity and confidence, fostering transparency and stability within the local real estate market.

2. Land Surveys

Land surveys constitute a critical component of Mathews County property records. These precisely measured and mapped representations of land parcels define property boundaries, easements, and other spatial features. Accurate surveys are essential for resolving boundary disputes, planning construction projects, and ensuring the legal integrity of property transactions.

  • Boundary Delineation

    Surveys definitively establish property lines, preventing encroachment and ensuring accurate property descriptions in legal documents. A survey can clarify ambiguities in older deed descriptions, which may rely on natural landmarks that have shifted or disappeared over time. This precise demarcation minimizes the potential for future disputes between neighbors regarding property ownership.

  • Easement Identification

    Surveys identify easements, which are rights granted to others to use a portion of a property for specific purposes, such as utility lines or access routes. Documenting these easements on a survey protects the rights of the easement holder and informs property owners of existing limitations on their land use. For example, a survey would reveal a pre-existing utility easement, preventing a homeowner from unknowingly building a structure over it.

  • Topographic Information

    Surveys often include topographic details, such as elevation changes, water features, and vegetation. This information is crucial for site planning and development, informing decisions about building placement, drainage systems, and landscaping. Understanding the topography of a parcel is essential for assessing flood risk, determining suitable building locations, and complying with local environmental regulations.

  • Legal Validity and Record-Keeping

    Recorded surveys serve as legal documents within Mathews County property records, providing irrefutable evidence of property boundaries and features. These records are essential for resolving property disputes, ensuring accurate tax assessments, and facilitating smooth real estate transactions. A certified survey provides legal certainty and protects property owners’ rights. Furthermore, historical surveys can offer valuable insights into past land use and development patterns.

The integration of land surveys within Mathews County property records provides a robust framework for maintaining accurate and legally sound property information. This meticulous documentation safeguards property rights, facilitates informed decision-making, and contributes to the overall stability of the local real estate market. By providing a precise spatial context, land surveys enhance the value and utility of other property records, creating a comprehensive and reliable resource for landowners, developers, and researchers.

3. Title Documents

Title documents form the bedrock of property ownership verification within Mathews County property records. These legal instruments, including deeds, wills, and court orders, establish the chain of ownership and provide evidence of a clear and marketable title. A thorough examination of title documents is crucial for confirming ownership, uncovering potential encumbrances, and ensuring a secure property transaction. For instance, a title search may reveal an unresolved lien from a previous owner, potentially impacting the current owner’s ability to sell or refinance the property. A clear title, demonstrated through properly executed and recorded title documents, is essential for securing mortgages and protecting property rights. This process safeguards buyers from purchasing properties with hidden legal issues, promoting transparency and confidence in real estate transactions.

Within Mathews County, title documents are meticulously recorded and maintained as part of the public record. This system allows for comprehensive title searches, tracing ownership back through generations. This historical record is crucial for resolving boundary disputes, establishing rightful heirs, and understanding the evolution of land ownership within the county. For example, a historical deed may contain crucial information about easement rights or mineral rights associated with the property, impacting current land use and development potential. Access to these records is essential for legal professionals, real estate agents, title companies, and individuals conducting property research. The availability of these records promotes efficient and informed decision-making in property matters.

The integrity and accessibility of title documents within Mathews County property records are paramount for ensuring secure property ownership and facilitating smooth real estate transactions. A well-maintained system of title recording protects property rights, facilitates due diligence, and minimizes the risk of legal disputes. Understanding the importance of title documents and their role within the broader context of property records empowers individuals and organizations to navigate the complexities of property ownership with confidence and clarity. The readily available and comprehensive nature of these records contributes significantly to the stability and security of the local real estate market.

4. Mortgage Information

Mortgage information forms a crucial component of Mathews County property records, providing essential details about loans secured by real estate. These records document the lender, borrower, loan amount, interest rate, and terms of the mortgage. This information plays a vital role in establishing liens against properties, which are legal claims that secure the debt. A thorough understanding of mortgage information within these records is critical for prospective buyers, lenders, and researchers, offering insights into a property’s financial history and potential risks. For instance, the presence of multiple mortgages on a property could indicate a higher level of financial risk for a prospective buyer. This information also allows lenders to assess the creditworthiness of borrowers and make informed lending decisions. Furthermore, researchers can utilize mortgage data to analyze market trends and understand the economic dynamics of the local real estate sector.

Access to mortgage information within Mathews County property records facilitates transparency and due diligence in real estate transactions. Title searches routinely include a review of mortgage records to ensure clear ownership and identify any outstanding liens. This process protects buyers from inheriting unforeseen debts associated with the property and enables lenders to accurately assess the collateral value of the property. For example, a title search would reveal a second mortgage, alerting a potential buyer to the existence of another lien holder. This knowledge allows buyers to make informed decisions and avoid potential legal and financial complications. Additionally, this readily available information supports accurate property valuations and contributes to the overall stability of the real estate market.

In conclusion, the meticulous recording and accessibility of mortgage information within Mathews County property records provides crucial insights for various stakeholders. This information safeguards the interests of buyers, lenders, and researchers, fostering informed decision-making and promoting transparency in real estate transactions. A comprehensive understanding of mortgage records allows for a more thorough assessment of property values, risk factors, and market dynamics, ultimately contributing to a more secure and efficient real estate market within the county.

5. Tax Assessments

Tax assessments constitute a critical component of Mathews County property records, directly linking property values to county revenue generation. County assessors utilize property records, including land surveys, building characteristics, and comparable sales data, to determine the assessed value of each parcel. This assessed value serves as the basis for calculating property taxes, a primary funding source for essential county services such as schools, infrastructure, and public safety. The accuracy and transparency of tax assessments are paramount for ensuring equitable distribution of the tax burden and maintaining public trust in the local government. For example, a significant increase in a property’s assessed value, based on documented improvements or market trends reflected in property records, could result in a corresponding increase in property taxes. This direct correlation underscores the importance of accurate and up-to-date property records in supporting a fair and efficient tax system.

The connection between tax assessments and property records extends beyond revenue generation. Property owners have the right to appeal assessments they deem inaccurate, relying on documented evidence from property records to support their claims. This appeals process ensures accountability and fairness within the tax system, providing a mechanism for correcting errors and resolving disputes. For example, a property owner could challenge an assessment based on an inaccurate recording of building square footage within the property records. Furthermore, the availability of tax assessment data within public property records allows for market analysis, informing real estate investment decisions and contributing to transparency within the local property market. Access to this information empowers property owners and potential buyers with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions regarding property transactions and tax liabilities. This transparency fosters a more stable and equitable real estate environment.

In conclusion, tax assessments represent a crucial link between individual property values and the financial well-being of Mathews County. The accuracy and accessibility of property records directly impact the fairness and efficiency of the tax assessment process. Understanding this connection empowers property owners, potential buyers, and researchers to navigate the local real estate market with greater clarity and confidence. Furthermore, a robust and transparent system of tax assessment, supported by accurate property records, fosters trust in local governance and contributes to the overall economic health of the community. Challenges such as maintaining accurate property data in the face of rapid development or market fluctuations underscore the ongoing importance of investing in robust record-keeping systems.

6. Lien Records

Lien records constitute a critical component of Mathews County property records, revealing encumbrances that may affect a property’s title. A lien represents a legal claim against a property, typically used to secure payment of a debt. Understanding these records is essential for prospective buyers, lenders, and anyone conducting due diligence on a property. Liens can significantly impact property ownership and transactions, potentially affecting the marketability of a title. Access to lien information promotes transparency and protects the interests of all parties involved in real estate transactions within the county. Failure to identify and address existing liens can lead to significant legal and financial complications.

  • Types of Liens

    Various types of liens can be recorded against a property in Mathews County. These include tax liens for unpaid property taxes, mechanic’s liens for unpaid construction work, and judgment liens resulting from court rulings. Each type of lien carries specific legal implications and priorities. For instance, a tax lien generally takes precedence over other liens. Understanding the nuances of different lien types is crucial for assessing the potential impact on a property’s title. A prospective buyer discovering a mechanic’s lien, for example, could negotiate with the seller to resolve the outstanding debt before finalizing the purchase.

  • Lien Priority

    The order in which liens are recorded establishes their priority. In the event of foreclosure or sale, liens are typically paid off in order of priority. This hierarchy determines which creditors receive payment first from the proceeds. Therefore, understanding lien priority is crucial for both creditors and property owners. For example, a first mortgage typically holds higher priority than a second mortgage or a judgment lien. This prioritization dictates the order in which debts are satisfied in case of default or sale.

  • Searching Lien Records

    Mathews County maintains public records of liens, accessible through the County Clerk’s office or online databases. Title searches routinely include a comprehensive review of lien records to uncover potential encumbrances. This process ensures transparency and allows potential buyers to make informed decisions. A title search revealing a previously unknown judgment lien, for example, could significantly influence a buyer’s decision to proceed with a purchase. Access to these records empowers individuals and organizations to conduct thorough due diligence before engaging in property transactions.

  • Impact on Property Transactions

    The presence of unresolved liens can complicate or even prevent the sale or refinancing of a property. Title companies typically require clear title, free of encumbrances, before issuing title insurance. Therefore, addressing existing liens is often a necessary step for completing a real estate transaction. For instance, a seller might need to satisfy an outstanding tax lien before transferring ownership to a buyer. Understanding the impact of liens on property transactions is essential for both buyers and sellers to navigate the process successfully and avoid legal complications.

In conclusion, lien records within Mathews County property records provide crucial information for safeguarding property rights and facilitating transparent real estate transactions. Careful examination of these records allows potential buyers, lenders, and other stakeholders to assess risk and make informed decisions. Understanding the different types of liens, their priority, and their potential impact on property transactions is essential for navigating the complexities of property ownership within the county. The readily accessible nature of these records fosters a more secure and efficient real estate market by promoting due diligence and protecting the interests of all parties involved.

7. Deed Transfers

Deed transfers represent the cornerstone of property ownership changes within Mathews County property records. These legal documents formalize the conveyance of property rights from one party to another, establishing a critical link in the chain of title. A comprehensive understanding of deed transfers is essential for anyone involved in real estate transactions, title research, or historical property analysis within the county. Their meticulous recording and accessibility within the public record system ensures transparency and safeguards property rights.

  • Types of Deeds

    Several types of deeds exist, each conveying different levels of ownership assurance. A general warranty deed offers the highest level of protection, guaranteeing clear title free of encumbrances. A special warranty deed limits the guarantee to the current owner’s tenure. A quitclaim deed, conversely, transfers only the grantor’s interest, without any warranties. The type of deed used in a transaction has significant legal implications, affecting the buyer’s level of protection against title defects. Choosing the appropriate deed type is crucial for ensuring a secure and legally sound transaction.

  • Essential Elements of a Deed

    Valid deed transfers within Mathews County require specific elements, including accurate identification of the grantor and grantee, a precise legal description of the property, and the grantor’s signature. Any errors or omissions in these elements can invalidate the deed, potentially leading to legal disputes and ownership challenges. The inclusion of accurate property descriptions, often referencing recorded surveys within Mathews County property records, ensures clear delineation of property boundaries and prevents future conflicts. Meticulous attention to detail in deed preparation safeguards the integrity of the transfer process.

  • Recording Deed Transfers

    The recording of deed transfers in the Mathews County Clerk’s office is crucial for establishing legal ownership and protecting property rights. This process creates a permanent public record of the transfer, providing constructive notice to third parties. Timely recording establishes the priority of ownership claims, preventing potential conflicts arising from subsequent transfers. The readily available and searchable nature of these records promotes transparency and facilitates efficient property research. For instance, title companies rely on recorded deed transfers to verify ownership and uncover potential encumbrances during title searches.

  • Deed Transfers and Title Insurance

    Title insurance policies, frequently required for real estate transactions, rely heavily on the information contained within recorded deed transfers. Title companies conduct thorough title searches, examining deed transfers and other property records to identify potential defects in title. These searches ensure that the buyer receives clear ownership, free of undisclosed liens or encumbrances. The accuracy and completeness of deed transfer records within Mathews County property records directly contribute to the reliability of title insurance, providing crucial protection for property buyers.

The accurate and accessible record of deed transfers within Mathews County property records provides the foundation for secure property ownership and efficient real estate transactions. Understanding the nuances of deed types, essential elements, recording procedures, and the link to title insurance empowers individuals and organizations to navigate the complexities of property ownership with confidence. This robust system of recording and maintaining deed transfers contributes significantly to the stability and security of the local real estate market, protecting property rights and facilitating informed decision-making.

8. Legal Descriptions

Legal descriptions within Mathews County property records provide the precise and unambiguous identification of land parcels, distinguishing them from all other properties. Unlike informal addresses or colloquial descriptions, legal descriptions utilize specific terminology and measurement systems to define property boundaries with accuracy. This precision is crucial for preventing boundary disputes, ensuring accurate tax assessments, and facilitating clear title transfers. These descriptions form the basis for all legal documents related to property ownership within the county, including deeds, mortgages, and surveys. An improperly drafted legal description can lead to significant legal challenges, including title disputes, boundary conflicts, and difficulties in conducting property transactions. Therefore, understanding the function and importance of accurate legal descriptions within property records is paramount for ensuring secure property ownership and facilitating smooth real estate transactions within Mathews County.

Two primary methods of legal description prevail in Mathews County: the metes and bounds system and the lot and block system. The metes and bounds system, often used for older properties, relies on a sequence of compass directions and distances, starting from a defined point of beginning and tracing the property’s perimeter. This system requires precise measurements and clear identification of landmarks. The lot and block system, common in planned subdivisions, identifies parcels by their lot and block numbers within a recorded plat map. This system provides a more streamlined approach, especially for properties within clearly defined developments. The choice of method depends on the historical context and the specific characteristics of the property. Understanding both systems is essential for interpreting legal descriptions within Mathews County property records. For example, a metes and bounds description might reference a historical landmark, such as a particular tree or a stone wall, requiring careful interpretation in the context of current land features. A lot and block description, conversely, would refer to a specific numbered lot within a recorded subdivision plat, simplifying the identification process.

The accurate interpretation and utilization of legal descriptions are fundamental to the integrity of Mathews County property records. These descriptions provide the necessary specificity to distinguish individual properties, ensuring clear title and minimizing the potential for disputes. Challenges can arise when dealing with older descriptions, potentially requiring professional surveying expertise to reconcile historical boundaries with current land features. However, the meticulous maintenance and accessibility of these records within the county system provide a robust framework for resolving property-related matters and ensuring secure property ownership. A clear understanding of legal descriptions empowers property owners, legal professionals, and anyone involved in real estate transactions to navigate the complexities of property ownership with greater clarity and confidence, fostering a more stable and efficient property market within Mathews County.

9. Public Access

Public access to Mathews County property records forms a cornerstone of transparent governance and informed decision-making within the local real estate market. Open access ensures accountability, facilitates due diligence, and empowers individuals and organizations with the information necessary to navigate property transactions, research, and legal matters effectively. This accessibility fosters a more stable and equitable real estate environment, benefiting property owners, prospective buyers, researchers, and the community as a whole. Restrictions on access could hinder property research, complicate transactions, and undermine public trust in the integrity of property ownership records.

  • Methods of Access

    Mathews County provides multiple avenues for accessing property records. The County Clerk’s office serves as the primary repository for physical records, offering in-person access during business hours. Online databases, increasingly prevalent, provide remote access to digitized records, enhancing convenience and efficiency. These online platforms often include search functionalities, enabling users to locate specific records quickly. The availability of both physical and digital access methods caters to diverse needs and preferences, ensuring broad access to essential property information. For instance, a title company conducting a comprehensive title search might utilize online databases for initial research, supplementing with in-person examination of specific physical documents if necessary. This multi-faceted approach maximizes accessibility and efficiency.

  • Information Available

    Publicly accessible property records in Mathews County encompass a wide range of information, including deeds, mortgages, liens, tax assessments, and land surveys. This comprehensive data provides a detailed history of each property, outlining ownership changes, encumbrances, and assessed values. Access to this information empowers prospective buyers to conduct thorough due diligence before purchasing a property, enabling informed decision-making and minimizing potential risks. Researchers can utilize these records to trace ownership history, analyze market trends, and conduct historical or genealogical studies. The breadth of available information contributes to a more transparent and well-informed real estate market.

  • Cost and Fees

    While access to Mathews County property records is generally considered a public right, nominal fees may apply for obtaining copies of documents or utilizing online search services. These fees typically cover administrative costs associated with record maintenance and retrieval. Fee structures vary based on the specific service requested and the method of access. For example, obtaining a certified copy of a deed may incur a higher fee than conducting a basic online property search. Transparency in fee structures is essential for ensuring equitable access to information. Excessively high fees could create barriers to access, particularly for individuals or organizations with limited resources.

  • Limitations on Access

    While transparency is paramount, certain limitations on public access to property records may exist to protect sensitive information or comply with legal requirements. For example, some records related to ongoing legal disputes or sensitive personal information may be temporarily restricted. These limitations are typically governed by state and local regulations, balancing public access with the need to protect privacy and maintain the integrity of legal proceedings. Understanding these limitations is crucial for navigating the process of accessing property records effectively. In cases where access is restricted, procedures for requesting access or obtaining necessary authorizations should be clearly defined and readily available to the public. Maintaining this balance between transparency and necessary restrictions ensures responsible and ethical access to sensitive information.

Public access to Mathews County property records underpins the integrity and efficiency of the local real estate market. By providing multiple avenues for accessing comprehensive property information while maintaining reasonable fee structures and necessary safeguards, the county fosters transparency, empowers informed decision-making, and protects property rights. This commitment to public access contributes significantly to the stability and security of the local real estate environment, benefiting individuals, organizations, and the community as a whole. The ongoing evolution of technology and data management practices presents opportunities to further enhance public access and streamline the process of retrieving and utilizing property information within Mathews County.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries regarding property records in Mathews County, Virginia, providing concise and informative responses to facilitate understanding and effective utilization of these resources.

Question 1: How can property ownership be verified in Mathews County?

Ownership verification relies primarily on examining the chain of title within recorded deeds. These documents, accessible through the County Clerk’s office or online databases, trace ownership back through successive transfers. A title search, conducted by a title company or legal professional, provides a comprehensive analysis of ownership history and ensures clear title.

Question 2: What information is typically included in a property record?

Property records encompass a variety of information, including legal descriptions, ownership history, tax assessments, liens, mortgages, and other encumbrances. Survey information, detailing property boundaries, is also frequently included. The specific information available can vary depending on the property and its history.

Question 3: How can one access property records in Mathews County?

Property records are accessible through the Mathews County Clerk’s office during regular business hours. Many records are also available online through the county’s website or third-party providers, facilitating remote access and research. Specific procedures and fees may apply depending on the access method and the type of information requested.

Question 4: Are there any fees associated with accessing property records?

Nominal fees may apply for obtaining copies of documents, conducting online searches, or accessing specific services related to property records. These fees typically offset administrative costs and vary based on the nature of the request. Fee schedules are generally available through the County Clerk’s office or online resources.

Question 5: How are property taxes determined in Mathews County?

Property taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of a property, determined by the County Assessor’s office. Assessments consider various factors, including property characteristics, land use, and comparable sales data. This assessed value is multiplied by the applicable tax rate to determine the annual property tax liability.

Question 6: What is a lien and how does it affect a property?

A lien represents a legal claim against a property, often used to secure payment of a debt. Liens can arise from various sources, such as unpaid taxes, mortgages, or judgments. The presence of a lien can encumber a property’s title, potentially affecting its marketability and impacting future transactions.

Understanding these key aspects of Mathews County property records facilitates informed decision-making, protects property rights, and promotes transparency within the local real estate market. Thorough research and consultation with legal professionals or title companies are recommended for complex property matters.

For further information or specific inquiries, consulting with a qualified legal professional or title company specializing in Virginia real estate law is recommended.

Essential Tips for Utilizing Property Records

Effective use of property records requires a strategic approach. The following tips provide practical guidance for navigating and interpreting these valuable resources within Mathews County.

Tip 1: Verify Ownership Before Transactions.

Thorough title searches are crucial before any property transaction. These searches, conducted by title companies or legal professionals, examine the chain of title within recorded deeds to confirm ownership and uncover potential encumbrances. This proactive step protects buyers from inheriting unforeseen legal issues and ensures a smooth transaction.

Tip 2: Understand Legal Descriptions.

Accurate interpretation of legal descriptions is fundamental. Whether using the metes and bounds or lot and block system, understanding the terminology and measurements ensures accurate identification of property boundaries and prevents future disputes. Consulting with a surveyor can provide clarity for complex descriptions.

Tip 3: Research Tax Assessments and Liens.

Reviewing tax assessment records informs potential buyers about property values and potential tax liabilities. Simultaneously, checking for outstanding liens, such as tax liens or mechanic’s liens, reveals potential encumbrances that could affect ownership and transaction procedures.

Tip 4: Utilize Online Resources Effectively.

Online databases provide convenient access to property records. Familiarizing oneself with available online resources, including county websites and third-party providers, streamlines research and allows for efficient retrieval of information.

Tip 5: Consult Professionals When Necessary.

Complex property matters often benefit from professional expertise. Consulting with real estate attorneys, title companies, or surveyors provides specialized guidance and ensures accurate interpretation of legal documents and property-related issues.

Tip 6: Maintain Accurate Records.

Property owners benefit from maintaining organized records of all property-related documents, including deeds, surveys, tax assessments, and insurance policies. These organized records facilitate future transactions, resolve potential disputes, and provide valuable documentation of property ownership history.

By following these tips, individuals and organizations can effectively utilize property records to protect their interests, make informed decisions, and navigate the complexities of property ownership within Mathews County. These proactive measures promote transparency, minimize risk, and contribute to a more secure and efficient real estate market.

The subsequent conclusion will summarize the key benefits of understanding and utilizing these records effectively within Mathews County.

Conclusion

Mathews County property records provide a critical foundation for secure property ownership, transparent transactions, and informed decision-making within the local real estate market. Access to these meticulously maintained records empowers individuals, organizations, and researchers with the information necessary to navigate property matters effectively. From verifying ownership and uncovering potential encumbrances to understanding historical land use and assessing property values, these records serve as an invaluable resource. The comprehensive nature of these records, encompassing deeds, titles, mortgages, liens, assessments, and surveys, offers a complete picture of a property’s legal and financial status.

Diligent utilization of Mathews County property records fosters a more stable and equitable real estate environment. Proactive research and a clear understanding of these records protect property rights, facilitate informed transactions, and minimize potential risks. The ongoing commitment to maintaining accurate and accessible property records remains essential for the continued health and transparency of the Mathews County real estate market, contributing to the overall economic well-being of the community. Leveraging these records effectively empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions, fostering responsible property ownership and contributing to the long-term prosperity of Mathews County.