Agricultural census records exist for years prior to 1851. Try to inspect several maps of a your town over several years if possible to chart the changes made. Fire Insurance Plans Periodically insurance companies would commission the creation of 'fire insurance plans' - very accurate and detailed plans showing the location, floorplan, and construction materials of every building in a certain town or city. Several examples survive from the 1880's to the late 1960's for Ontario communities. Every property is owned by someone or something.
Ownership is tracked and managed by a flurry of legal documents.
County and City Courts, City Archives and registry offices hold such records. Such requests usually involve a small fee for service. Surveys are also available at the registry office. Related to the above are personal and family papers - usually found in the local archives or museum. Tragically however, many families never think the 'paper trail' they generate over the years has historical value.