Planning to transfer your property in Tuscarawas County, Ohio? This complete guide walks you through every step required to transfer property ownership correctly, from selecting the proper type of deed to officially recording it. Whether you are selling, gifting, inheriting, or adding/removing a family member from the title, all actions must comply with the Tuscarawas County Auditor and Tuscarawas County Recorder guidelines.
You’ll learn how to prepare your deed accurately, have it reviewed and stamped by the Tuscarawas County Auditor (for conveyance or exemption), pay the applicable recording fees, and file it with the Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office to make the ownership transfer legally valid. Following these steps ensures your transfer is secure, compliant, and properly reflected in county property records, giving both you and future owners confidence that the title is clear.
Step 1: Understand Why You’re Transferring Ownership
Before starting a property transfer in Tuscarawas County, it’s important to identify why you are transferring the property. The reason determines which type of deed you need and which official forms must be completed.
Common reasons include:
Selling Property to Another Person or Business
If you are selling real estate in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, you must complete either:
- DTE 100 – Real Property Conveyance Form
- DTE 100EX – Real Property Exempt Conveyance Form
Submit the form to the Tuscarawas County Auditor’s Office for review and approval. After the Auditor stamps the form, you must file the deed with the Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office and pay the recording fees, which are currently $28 for the first page and $4 for each additional page.
Make sure all information is accurate, including:
- Grantor and grantee names
- Parcel number and property description
- Conveyance or exemption details
The Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office manages the official recording of all deeds, while the Auditor’s Office validates property details and calculates any applicable conveyance fees to ensure the transaction is legally correct and properly documented.
Gifting Property to a Family Member (Without Money Exchange)
If you are gifting property to a family member in Tuscarawas County, you will need a recorded deed usually a quitclaim deed along with the DTE 100EX form to claim exemption from the conveyance fee.
Steps to follow:
- Prepare the deed carefully, including:
- Accurate grantor and grantee names
- Correct parcel number and property description
- Any required value fields, even if no money is exchanged
- Submit the deed to the Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office for recording.
- Pay the recording fees, which are currently:
- $28 for the first page
- $4 for each additional page
Following these steps ensures that the gift transfer is legally valid, reflected in county records, and exempt from the conveyance fee.
Transferring After Marriage, Divorce or Inheritance
When transferring property in Tuscarawas County due to marriage, divorce, or inheritance, you must prepare a recorded deed either a quitclaim deed or warranty deed, depending on the situation and complete the appropriate Ohio DTE conveyance form.
- Use DTE 100EX if the transfer is exempt from conveyance fees, such as in spousal transfers or divorce-related assignments.
- File the deed with the Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office.
- Pay the recording fees, which are currently:
- $28 for the first page
- $4 for each additional page
For inheritances, verify whether probate or Transfer on Death (TOD) requirements apply, as proper documentation is necessary to ensure the transfer is legally recognized and properly recorded in county property records.
Adding or removing a Name from the Deed (e.g joint ownership )
If you need to add or remove a co-owner on a property deed in Tuscarawas County, you must prepare a new recorded deed, typically a quitclaim deed, reflecting the updated ownership.
Steps to follow:
- Complete the appropriate Ohio DTE form:
- DTE 100 if the transaction is subject to conveyance fees
- DTE 100EX if the transfer is exempt (for example, certain family or spousal adjustments)
- Ensure accuracy:
- Correct grantor and grantee names
- Accurate legal description of the property
- Updated parcel number and value fields as needed
- File the deed with the Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office.
- Pay the recording fees, which are currently:
- $28 for the first page
- $4 for each additional page
Different reasons for updating ownership such as adding a spouse, removing a deceased co-owner, or adjusting joint ownership may require different forms or supporting documentation, so always verify the specific requirements with the Tuscarawas County Auditor or Recorder.
Following these steps ensures that the updated ownership is legally recognized, properly recorded, and reflected accurately in Tuscarawas County property records.
Step 2: Choose the Correct Type of Deed
In Tuscarawas County, property transfers generally use one of the following deed types:
| Deed Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Warranty Deed | Transfers ownership with a full guarantee that the title is clear. Commonly used for property sales. |
| Quitclaim Deed | Transfers ownership without guarantees, often used for gifts, family transfers, or adding/removing co-owners. |
| Transfer on Death (TOD) Affidavit | Allows property to transfer automatically after the owner’s death, avoiding probate and simplifying estate planning. |
| Executor’s or Fiduciary Deed | Used when transferring property from an estate by the executor or fiduciary of the estate. |
Tip:
If you are unsure which deed is appropriate for your situation, it’s best to consult a real estate attorney or a title company familiar with Tuscarawas County property law. Using the wrong deed or making errors can result in an invalid transfer, delays, or legal complications
Step 3: Complete the Deed Form Properly
When preparing a deed in Tuscarawas County, it is essential to fill out the form accurately to ensure a smooth and legally valid property transfer. Every deed should include the following information:
- Current owner’s full legal name and address
- New owner’s full legal name and address
- Legal property description (available on the current deed or through the Tuscarawas County Auditor’s Office)
- Parcel number (found on your tax bill or through the Auditor’s property records)
- Notarized signatures of all current owners
Where to Obtain Deed Forms:
- Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office Forms
- Through a licensed title company or real estate attorney
Accurate completion of these details ensures the deed can be properly recorded, the ownership transfer is legally valid, and the new owner is correctly reflected in Tuscarawas County property records.
Step 4: Get the Deed Approved by the County Auditor
Before recording a deed in Tuscarawas County, it must be reviewed and stamped by the Tuscarawas County Auditor. The Auditor ensures that the transfer complies with county regulations and that any required fees are properly calculated.
The Auditor verifies that:
- The property’s conveyance form (DTE 100 or DTE 100EX) is complete and accurate
- The correct transfer tax (Conveyance Fee) is calculated and paid
- Any exemptions are properly documented (for gifts, spousal transfers, or certain family transfers)
Tuscarawas County Auditor Contact Information:
- Address: 125 East High Avenue, New Philadelphia, OH 44663
- Phone: 330-365-3220 (official Auditor office)
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Conveyance Fee (Tuscarawas County):
- Calculated at $2.50 per $1,000 of property value, unless the transfer is exempt.
- Confirm exact calculation with the Auditor’s Office for your specific property.
Having the deed stamped and approved by the Tuscarawas County Auditor ensures the transfer is legally valid, compliant, and ready to be recorded with the Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office.
Step 5: Record the Deed with the Recorder’s Office
After the Tuscarawas County Auditor has approved and stamped the deed, the next step is to file it with the Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office for official recording. Recording the deed makes the ownership transfer legally binding and ensures it is part of the public property records.
Tuscarawas County Recorder Contact Information:
- Address: 125 East High Avenue, New Philadelphia, OH 44663
- Phone: 330-365-3284
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Recording Fees (Tuscarawas County):
- $28 for the first page
- $4 for each additional page
Tips to Ensure Smooth Recording:
- The deed must be original, signed, and notarized
- Ensure the Auditor’s stamp is clearly visible on the deed
- Verify that all recording fees have been calculated and paid
Following these steps ensures that the deed is officially recorded, the ownership transfer is legally recognized, and the property records in Tuscarawas County are accurate and up to date.
Step 6: Update Property Tax and Billing Information
After the deed is recorded with the Tuscarawas County Recorder, the new owner should ensure that property tax records and billing information are updated to reflect the change in ownership. This step helps avoid misdirected bills or errors in the county’s property database.
You can verify ownership and tax records via the Tuscarawas County Auditor’s Property Search portal:
auditor.co.tuscarawas.oh.us
Important Steps:
- Ensure your mailing address for property tax bills is correct and current
- Confirm that the parcel number and ownership details match the recorded deed
- Contact the Tuscarawas County Treasurer for any billing questions or concerns:
- Phone: 330-365-3231
- Address: 125 East High Avenue, New Philadelphia, OH 44663
Completing this step ensures that future tax bills are sent correctly, and the county property records fully reflect the new owner, preventing any future disputes or missed payments.
Step 7: Keep Copies for Your Records
Once the property transfer is complete, it is essential to retain copies of all documents related to the transaction. Proper record-keeping protects your legal ownership and can prevent future disputes.
Documents to Keep:
- A certified copy of the recorded deed from the Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office
- Receipt of recording or proof of fee payment
- Any transfer forms, conveyance documents, or tax forms submitted to the Auditor or Treasurer
Keeping these records ensures that you have proof of ownership in case of:
- Future property sales
- Title verification
- Tax disputes or billing errors
Store these documents in a safe and accessible location, such as a fireproof file or digital backup, so they are easy to reference whenever needed
Important Legal Notes
When transferring property in Tuscarawas County, keep these legal considerations in mind:
- Notarization is required: All deeds must be properly notarized before they can be recorded with the Recorder’s Office.
- Consistency of names: Ensure that grantor and grantee names match exactly on all forms, the deed, and supporting documents.
- Mortgage considerations: If the property has an existing mortgage or lien, the lender’s approval may be required before the transfer can be completed.
- Gifts and family transfers: Transfers to family members or as gifts may have tax implications, including federal or state gift taxes. It’s wise to consult a financial advisor or tax professional to understand potential obligations.
Following these notes carefully ensures that your property transfer is legally valid, compliant, and smooth, minimizing the risk of errors or future disputes.
Summary Property Transfer Checklist
| Task | Where to Go / How |
|---|---|
| Prepare deed | Title company, real estate attorney, or use a Tuscarawas County–approved deed template |
| Verify property info | Tuscarawas County Auditor’s Property Search portal: auditor.co.tuscarawas.oh.us |
| Pay conveyance tax & get Auditor’s stamp | Tuscarawas County Auditor’s Office, 125 East High Avenue, New Philadelphia, OH 44663, Phone: 330-365-3220 |
| Record deed | Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office, 125 East High Avenue, New Philadelphia, OH 44663, Phone: 330-365-3284 |
| Confirm ownership update & tax billing | Auditor’s online property search portal; contact Treasurer’s Office if needed, Phone: 330-365-3231 |
This checklist now accurately reflects Tuscarawas County offices, procedures, and contact information, making it easy for any property owner to follow each step.
Conclusion
Transferring property ownership in Tuscarawas County is a straightforward legal process when you follow the correct steps. From selecting the appropriate deed type, completing and notarizing the forms, getting the Auditor’s approval, to recording the deed with the Recorder’s Office, each step ensures that your ownership change is legally valid and accurately reflected in county records.
If you are ever uncertain about which deed to use, how to complete the forms, or any tax implications, consulting a qualified real estate attorney or title professional is a small investment that can provide peace of mind and prevent potential legal issues in the future.
FAQs
Can I transfer property to a family member without paying taxes?
Yes. Certain family transfers may be exempt from the conveyance tax in Tuscarawas County. To claim the exemption, you must file a Conveyance Exemption Form (DTE-100EX) with the Tuscarawas County Auditor’s Office
Do both parties need to be present to record the deed?
No. Only the signed and notarized deed is required. Anyone can submit the deed for recording at the Tuscarawas County Recorder’s Office
Can I complete the transfer myself without a lawyer?
Yes. You can handle the transfer on your own, but it is recommended to have a real estate attorney or title professional review your documents to prevent errors that could cause legal or financial issues.
What happens if I don’t record my deed?
If a deed is not recorded, the new ownership will not be legally recognized. This can lead to ownership disputes, title issues, or complications when selling the property in the future.
How long does the transfer take?
Once the deed is properly completed, notarized, approved by the Auditor, and all fees are the recording process typically takes 1–3 business day in Tuscarawas County.
