Detailed Answer
Under Alaska law, verifying all individuals or entities with an interest in real property requires collecting government-issued identification, title documents, and proof of authority. You must confirm names, legal capacity, and any ownership restrictions or encumbrances. The process varies by ownership type—individuals, married couples, corporations, LLCs, trusts, estates, and powers of attorney.
1. Individual Owners
- Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport).
- Social Security number or Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles ID number.
- Certified copy of any recorded deed or Title Certificate (AS 34.30.070 Link).
- Proof of marital status if property was acquired during marriage (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or spousal quitclaim deed).
2. Married Couples
- Joint tenancy or tenancy by the entirety requires both spouses’ IDs and signatures on conveyance instruments.
- Marital property agreements or community property declarations.
- Recorded affidavit of marital interest if one spouse acquired title separately.
3. Business Entities (Corporations & LLCs)
- Certificate of Existence or Certificate of Good Standing from the Alaska Division of Corporations (AS 10.06.130 Link).
- Articles of Incorporation or Organization, and any amendments.
- Corporate resolution or LLC operating agreement authorizing the real estate transaction.
- Names and signatures of officers or members transmitting authority.
4. Trusts and Estates
- Copy of the trust agreement and any amendments; certification of trustee powers.
- Letters testamentary or letters of administration issued by an Alaska court (AS 13.06.020 Link).
- Proof of death (death certificate) and heirship documentation, if title has not yet transferred.
5. Powers of Attorney & Guardianships
- Original or certified copy of power of attorney, acknowledged by a notary public according to AS 09.63.020 (Link).
- Guardianship or conservatorship letters demonstrating legal authority.
- Verification that the power of attorney is still valid and not revoked.
6. Liens, Easements & Recorded Interests
- Title search report from a title company or abstractor.
- Includes recorded liens, mortgages, judgments, easements, and covenants.
- Subordination or lien release documents, if applicable.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified Alaska attorney before making legal decisions.
Helpful Hints
- Start with a professional title search to identify all recorded interests.
- Use certified copies of documents to avoid recording delays.
- Confirm signatory authority when dealing with trusts and business entities.
- Check for special Alaska requirements on notarial acknowledgments.
- Keep a chronological file of deeds, affidavits, and certificates for easy reference.