Register Of Deeds Responsibilities

• The first Constitution of Michigan (1835) established the office of the Register of Deeds.
• The Register of Deeds is the elected representative of the people to review and record legal documents pertaining to the transfer or encumbrance of land and property within Berrien County – a land historian!
  • Vance’s experience with creating and reviewing documents recorded at the Register of Deeds office is valuable experience.
•  The Register of Deeds also serves as Chair of the county Plat Board which reviews and gives final approval to all subdivisions in the county and eventually, records the plat as well.
  • Vance’s degree in Real Estate Development & Finance, along with his experience in reviewing historical plat records will be a great asset to this important role.
• The Register of Deeds is charged by statute to maintain all land records permanently. The general public, lending institutions, abstract offices, realtors, attorneys, credit bureaus and surveyors make use of the land records daily.
  • Vance has utilized the Register of Deeds office as an individual, as an employee of lending institutions, as a manager of a title company office, a current realtor, and to look up and provide records to local surveyors!
• Without a deed, title or lease an owner cannot use the land as collateral or improve the property. Beyond the economics of loans and mortgages, people with land titles enjoy a great sense of security and community. The purpose of recording is to protect people who have acted in good faith and have an interest in the land or property.
  • These are all excellent reasons to elect Brandon Vance, an individual who understands how important real estate documents are. It is vitally important for the Register of Deeds to understand why and how each industry uses the Register of Deeds office.