How is title to real estate typically transferred?

The process of transferring title to real estate commonly involves different types of deeds, each serving distinct purposes. The general warranty deed is particularly important because it offers the highest level of protection to the buyer. When a seller conveys a property through a general warranty deed, they are making several key guarantees. The seller asserts that they have clear title to the property and the right to sell it, and they also promise that the property is free from any liens or encumbrances.

This deed covers the entire history of the property, protecting the buyer not only from future claims or actions against the property that might arise from the seller's ownership but also from any claims from previous owners. The seller is also obligated to defend the title against any claims, providing robust assurance to the buyer regarding their ownership rights.

By contrast, other types of deeds, like the special warranty deed or quitclaim deed, do not provide the same level of guarantees or protections, limiting the seller's liability or covering only specific time periods or claims. Therefore, in many scenarios where a buyer seeks complete confidence in their property rights, the general warranty deed is the preferred method of transferring title.