Deed
Definition and meaning of Deed in real estate.
Deed is a physical, written legal document that transfers ownership of a piece of real property from one party to another. The document must be signed by the seller, notarized, and recorded in public records to protect the owner's title.
In more detail
The person transferring the property is called the grantor, while the person receiving it is the grantee. The deed must contain a precise legal description of the property, the names of both parties, and language showing the intent to transfer ownership. Different types of deeds provide varying levels of protection for the buyer, with warranty deeds offering the highest security.
Once signed, the deed is filed with the local county recorder's office to establish a public record of ownership, which prevents future disputes.
Key facts
| Category | Legal, Titles & Closing |
|---|---|
| Common types | General warranty deed, special warranty deed, quitclaim deed |
| Required signatories | The grantor (seller) must sign, while the grantee (buyer) typically does not need to |
| Key requirement | Must be notarized and recorded in the county land records to provide public notice |
At the closing table, the home seller signs a general warranty deed that transfers ownership of the house to the new buyer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a deed and a title?
A title is a legal concept representing the right of ownership, while a deed is the physical, written document used to transfer that ownership.
When is a quitclaim deed used?
A quitclaim deed transfers ownership without any warranties or guarantees, and it is most commonly used to transfer property between family members or during a divorce.
Related terms
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Sources & references
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