Expert: Dick Dennis - 2/18/2006

Question
Could you please explain the differences between Warranty Deed, Grant Deed, and Quit Claim Deed and what each would be used for? The question originates from Clark County in the State of Nedvada. -------------------------
Followup To
Question -
If a person buys or owns a home as a single (unmarried) owner, and subsequently gets married, is the original owner required to file a Quitclaim Deed to transfer partial ownership to the new spouse?

Answer -
No, Buzmeg. It's strictly up to the original owner. And if he or she decides to put the new spouse on title, it is wise to use a Warranty Deed or Grant Deed in some states.

I do wish you well.

Dick Dennis
dixiedee13@aol.com

Answer
Depending on the state, the Warranty Deed and the Grant Deed are virtually the same. Just a different name for the same function. That is:

The seller (or conveyor) warrants that the title he/she is conveying is guaranteed to be valid. In Nevada, they use the Grant Deed. You'll find that out when you go to record the document at the local county recorder.

A Quitclaim deed does not warrant that the conveyance of title is valid. That is, if you would like, I could give you a Quitclaim deed to the Caesars Palace or the Empire State Bldg. in New York. Of course, there is not a guarantee that is has any value.

Yes, you could use the Quitclaim when you know it is valid, but it is so much cleaner when it's done with a Warranty Deed or Grant Deed. Never a question.

I wish you well.

Dick Dennis
dixiedee13@aol.com