Transferring property ownership in Columbiana County doesn’t have to be confusing. Whether you’re selling your home, gifting it to a loved one, or adding someone’s name to the title, this guide walks you through the full process from choosing the right deed to recording it officially with the county. By following each step, you’ll make sure your transfer is legal, smooth, and properly reflected in public records.
Step 1: Know Why You’re Transferring Ownership
Before preparing any documents, understand the purpose of your transfer this dictates what form you’ll use and whether any taxes apply.
Common reasons include:
- Selling the property
- Gifting it to a family member
- Transferring between spouses
- Adding or removing a name (joint ownership changes)
- Transferring at death or through an estate
Each reason can require different types of deeds and may affect fees or exemptions.
Step 2: Pick the Right Deed
Your choice of deed affects how the ownership is legally conveyed:
| Deed Type | When It’s Used |
| Warranty Deed | Most common in sales guarantees clear title. |
| Quit Claim Deed | Used for gifts or transfers without warranties (common for family). |
| Executor/Fiduciary Deed | Used when property is transferred from an estate. |
| Transfer on Death (TOD) | Allows the property to transfer automatically upon death, avoiding probate. |
Tip: If you’re unsure which deed type fits your situation, a real estate attorney or title company can help. Mistakes on the deed can make the transfer invalid.
Step 3: Prepare the Deed Form Correctly
To be accepted for recording in Columbiana County, every deed must include:
- Current owner’s full legal name and address
- New owner’s legal name and address
- Legal description of the property (from the current deed or Auditor’s database)
- Parcel ID / tax parcel number
- Notarized signatures of all current owners
Blank deed forms can usually be obtained from a title company, real estate attorney, or from the Auditor’s/Recorder’s offices directly. Before submitting, double check that all information is accurate.
Step 4: Get the Conveyance Reviewed by the Auditor
Before recording, your deed needs to be examined (or at least presented) to the Columbiana County Auditor’s Office, so the transfer can be checked and the conveyance tax (if any) calculated and paid.
- The Auditor’s Office is responsible for property valuation and transfer tax matters. oh-columbiana-auditor.publicaccessnow.com
Ohio conveys real property via a “conveyance fee” a tax based on the value of the property being transferred. The base state tax is $1.00 per $1,000 of value, and counties can add additional levy amounts check with the Auditor for exact local rates.HomeLight
If your transfer is exempt (like a gift between family members), you’ll submit the appropriate exemption form (often called a DTE-100EX).
Step 5: Record the Deed with the Recorder
Once the conveyance fee is paid and the Auditor signs/stamps the document, take the deed to the Columbiana County Recorder’s Office for official recording. This step makes the transfer part of the public record.
Columbiana County Recorder’s Office
105 S Market Street
Lisbon, OH 44432
(330) 424-9517columbianacountyrecorder.org
Hours: Monday – Friday, typically 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.columbianacountyrecorder.org
Recording Fees: Generally:
- $34 for the first two pages
- $8 for each additional page recorded
- Plus, marginal reference notations may be $4 each — check the Recorder for exact totalshttp://www.columbianacountyrecorder.org/
Important: The deed must be original, signed and notarized, and include the Auditor’s conveyance stamp.
Step 6: Update Property Tax and Billing Info
After recording, the new owner should verify that property tax bills and mailing information are updated with the Auditor’s office, so future tax notices arrive correctly. You can search property records online or contact the Auditor’s office directly to confirm ownership.
Step 7: Keep Copies of Everything
Make sure you retain:
- A certified copy of the recorded deed
- Your receipt from the Recorder’s Office
- Any tax forms or exemption statements
These are crucial for future legal purposes or resale.
Quick Property Transfer Checklist
| Task | Where to Go |
| Prepare the deed | Attorney/title company or DIY form |
| Pay conveyance fee & get Auditor review | Columbiana County Auditor |
| Record the deed | Columbiana County Recorder |
| Confirm updated ownership | Auditor’s online property search |
Conclusion
Transferring property ownership in Columbiana County is a simple and structured process as long as you follow each step carefully choosing the right deed, preparing accurate documents, getting your conveyance reviewed by the Auditor, and finally recording it with the Recorder’s Office. Each stage protects your rights and ensures the transfer is legally valid and recognized in public records.Whether you’re selling, gifting, or updating family ownership, taking the time to do it correctly now can save you from major issues later. And if anything feels unclear, a real estate attorney or title professional can give you peace of mind by reviewing your paperwork before you file.By staying organized and following the county’s requirements, you’ll complete your property transfer smoothly, securely, and without unnecessary stress.
FAQs
Can I transfer property to a family member without paying tax?
Yes — many family transfers are exempt from conveyance tax, but you must file the proper exemption form with the Auditor. HomeLight
Where can I find deed forms?
Request them from a title agency, attorney, or possibly from the Auditor/Recorder office directly.
Do both parties need to be present at recording?
No only the signed, notarized deed with the Auditor’s stamp must be submitted.
How long does the transfer take?
Typically a few business days once everything is submitted and fees are paid.
Can I do this myself?
Yes, but having a title professional or attorney review the deed ensures accuracy and reduces risk.
What if I don’t record my deed?
If you don’t record the deed, your ownership change is not legally recognized, which can cause issues selling or proving title later.
