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Overview

In addition to the API, BPD offers parcel data as flat file exports: full county or statewide datasets delivered as structured files. Flat files are the right choice when you need to process large volumes of parcels, run offline analysis, or build embeddings and AI pipelines.

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API vs. flat files

APIFlat files
Best forReal-time lookups, geographic queries, app integrationsBulk processing, AI/ML, benchmarking, high-volume workflows
DeliveryOn-demand via RESTFile delivery (S3 or direct download)
VolumeUp to 5,000 parcels/month on Professional planEntire states or nationwide
LatencyReal-timeBatch
UpdatesReflects latest dataDelivered on a scheduled cadence
PricingSubscription by parcel limitPer state or nationwide
Use the API when you need real-time access, geographic queries against user-submitted polygons, or per-parcel lookups in a live application. Use flat files when you need more than 5,000 parcels/month, are benchmarking data quality before committing, building embeddings for an AI workflow, or loading parcel data into your own data warehouse.

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AI and ML workflows

Flat files are the preferred delivery method for AI and ML use cases because they let you:
  • Generate embeddings from full parcel records in batch (e.g. using Databricks, Spark, or a local pipeline)
  • Build vector search indexes over parcel text fields (owner, address, legal description)
  • Run natural language search by embedding query text and retrieving semantically similar parcels
  • Power agentic AI workflows that need offline access to the full parcel corpus
The flat file schema matches the API response schema exactly (the same fields, the same null behavior), so pipelines built against flat files work against the API and vice versa.

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Pricing

Flat files are priced per state or as a nationwide dataset. Pricing depends on the states and update cadence required. Contact support@buyparceldata.com for a quote.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I use flat files for benchmarking before buying? Yes. Sample data is available on request; contact support@buyparceldata.com. Are updates included? Yes. Coverage expansions, data improvements, and additional counties added to your licensed area are included at no additional cost. What format are the files in? Contact support@buyparceldata.com for current delivery format options.