Frequently Asked Questions

A Property Transfer Affidavit must be filed whenever real estate or some types of personal property are transferred (even if you are not recording a deed). It is used by the Assessor to ensure the property is assessed properly and receives the correct Taxable Value. It must be filed by the new owner with the Assessor for the City or Township where the property is located within 45 days of the transfer. If it is not filed timely, a penalty of $5 per day (maximum $200) applies. The information on this form is not confidential. Transfer of ownership means the conveyance of title or the beneficial use of the property. There are both partial and whole transfers of ownership. The Assessor's office will determine the correct percentage and uncap the Taxable Value accordingly. Please see the Taxable Value Calculation FAQ for more information.

View or download the State's Property Transfer Affidavit (PDF).

The Michigan Supreme Court has ordered that information about the financing of property sales must be gathered. The purpose is to determine whether favorable financing provided by the sell may have caused the sale price to increase, i.e. mortgage amounts, interest rates, and any personal property received by the buyer, etc. If so, any increase in price due to the favorable seller-provided financing must be removed before the sale is considered for property assessment study purposes. Information disclosed on Real Property Statements is strictly confidential and will only be shared by the Assessor, State Tax Commission, County Equalization Department, and others involved in and for the determination of assessments.