Abstract vs Torrens Property

System of recording evidence of real estate title. The history of real estate transactions is indexed by legal description and name, this includes transfers of ownership and any rights (i.e.; mortgages, contracts, liens) that persons other than the owner may have in the land. Abstract documents are recorded based upon their compliance with recording statute. Minnesota is a "race to notice" state. Upon recording, documents are issued a sequential document number and the date and time of the recording is noted upon the document. Prior to the enactment of the Torrens Act in 1901, all land was Abstract land.

Abstract Numbers for Washington County are:

XXXXXX (six digits)

3XXXXXX (seven digits starting with a 3)

System of registration of land titles by District Court Order resulting in the creation of a Certificate of Title with all subsequent transactions affecting the property noted upon the certificate. Upon the presentation of a document for filing in Torrens, the Certificate of Title is examined. All instruments presented for filing in the Torrens system are reviewed for compliance prior to acceptance. Upon filing, documents are issued a sequential document number and the date and time of the filing is noted upon the document. The Certificate of Title is conclusive as to the state of title.

Torrens Numbers for Washington County are:

XXXXX (five digits)

1XXXXXX (seven digits starting with a 1)