General vs. special warranty deeds
A general warranty deed promises clear title against claims from any time. A special (or limited) warranty deed only covers the period the seller owned the property, and is common from builders, banks and estates.
Warranty deed vs. quitclaim deed
A warranty deed comes with promises the buyer can enforce. A quitclaim comes with none. In a sale, buyers expect a warranty deed backed by title insurance.
Parts of a deed
Once signed and delivered, it's recorded with the county Register of Deeds.
- The grantor (seller) and grantee (buyer)
- The legal description
- The words of conveyance and warranties
- The signature and notary acknowledgment
Common questions
Is a warranty deed the same thing as a deed?
It's one type of deed, the one with the strongest promises from the seller.
Can I sell my house with a warranty deed?
Yes. Sellers normally convey by warranty deed at closing.