How to Obtain a Warranty Deed

Warranty deeds have added protections built into them, making the ideal for most land transactions.

Deeds are written evidence of a title transfer in land. Common forms of deeds are the quitclaim deed and the warranty deed. Warranty deeds contain certain promises by the grantor (the person giving title to the grantee) that the land is lien-free and that the grantor will defend title. Warranty deeds are typically used when the parties are not familiar with each other or familiar with the land in question.

Instructions

1. Title the document “Warranty Deed.” Beneath the title, enter the date the deed was executed.

2. Write “For good consideration of [dollar amount for transfer], [Grantor’s name and address] hereby deeds and conveys to [Grantee’s name and address] the land described below.”

3. Describe the land. Use the legal description of the plot of land; this can be found by searching for the land in the county property records office located in the county where the land is located.

4. Write out the warranties involved in the transfer. You could, for example, write “Grantor covenants to Grantee as follows: Grantor has a good right to convey the land; the land is free from all encumbrances; Grantor will execute any instrument necessary to further insure title to the land; Grantor will forever warrant and defend title to the land granted to the Grantee.”

5. Bring the deed to a notary public along with two witnesses. Sign the deed in the presence of the witnesses and the notary. Notarize the deed and file it in the county recorder’s office.

References

• Nolo.com: Deeds FAQ

Resources

• Sample Warranty Deed
• Warranty Deed Sample