07/15/2025
🔑 Title Tip Tuesday: Deeds 101 — What Type of Deed Are You Getting? 📝
When you buy or sell property, the deed is the legal document that transfers ownership — but not all deeds are created equal. The type of deed used can significantly affect your rights and protections.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
✅ General Warranty Deed:
The gold standard for buyers. The seller guarantees clear title, promises they have the right to sell, and warrants against any title defects — even those that arose before the seller owned the property.
✅ Limited (or Special) Warranty Deed:
The seller only warrants that title was clear during their ownership period. If a problem arises from before they owned the property, you may be on your own.
✅ Quitclaim Deed:
This deed offers no warranties at all — it simply transfers whatever interest the seller has, if any. These are commonly used between family members or in divorce situations but should raise caution for buyers.
✅ Fiduciary Deed:
Used when property is transferred by an executor, trustee, or guardian. These typically contain limited warranties and reflect that the fiduciary is acting on behalf of another party (like an estate).
🔔 Why does this matter?
The type of deed impacts your recourse if a title issue arises. Just because you hold a deed doesn’t automatically mean your ownership is fully protected — and that’s where title insurance comes in.
💡 Takeaway:
Before you close, understand what kind of deed you’ll receive and make sure you’re protected. At Owl Creek Title, we don’t just process paperwork — we help you understand what you’re signing.
📞 Questions about deeds or title insurance? Call us today — we’re here to help!
