How to Conduct a Skip Tracing Search for Property Owners
Investigating the current location, contact information, and personal details of property owners might seem daunting, but there are methods and services that can make it more manageable. This article will guide you through the process and provide insights into different techniques and tools you can use to conduct a thorough skip tracing search.
Understanding Skip Tracing
Early in this process, it's important to understand what 'skip tracing' means. Skip tracing is a method for tracking down individuals. When applied to property owners, this involves locating the person associated with a property, often when they have become difficult to find. This might be for legitimate reasons, such as legal proceedings or disputes, or it could be as a result of unethical behavior.
Using Google and Online Research
The first step in skip tracing a property owner is to leverage the power of Google and online searches. Start by typing the person's name into the search bar. You may be surprised by the results. Blogs, forums, social media profiles, and public records can all provide clues about a person's whereabouts. Use the advanced search options to narrow your results, and be sure to include the area or property address in your search query. After your initial research, you may already have enough information to proceed.
Professional Skip Tracing Services
If you need more detailed or specific information, consider using professional skip tracing services. There are several companies that offer comprehensive skip tracing reports. These services can provide you with current and past addresses, phone numbers, names of relatives, and neighbors, as well as any legal or financial records related to the property.
One well-regarded company is BeenVerified. It offers a reliable service for conducting skip tracing searches. BeenVerified charges a small monthly fee for ongoing services, but they also offer one-time searches. Another reputable option is TruePeopleSearch, which provides extensive data on individuals, including property owners, for a fee.
Free and Low-Cost Alternatives
For those who are looking for a more economical approach, there are several free and low-cost services available. These platforms can also be quite effective and comprehensive. Some examples include BeenVerified, Whitepages, and Pipl. These services often offer basic skip tracing reports and can be a great first step in your search. They might not provide the same depth of information as professional services, but they can still be very useful.
Legality and Ethical Considerations
When conducting a skip tracing search, it's crucial to be aware of the legal and ethical implications. Always proceed with caution and ensure that any information you collect is used solely for legitimate purposes. Respecting a person's privacy is essential, and you should only access public records and information that is available without a privacy breach.
Check the laws in your area to understand what is permissible. For instance, in the U.S., several states have stringent data privacy laws that regulate how and when a person's personal information can be accessed and used. Always seek legal advice if you have any doubts.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to use Google and online research, professional skip tracing services, or free and low-cost alternatives, the key is to take a systematic approach and respect the privacy of the individual. Skip tracing can be a powerful tool for gathering information on property owners, but it must be done responsibly and ethically. If you're conducting such a search, make sure you have a clear purpose and follow the relevant laws and guidelines.