What Is a Grant Deed?

A grant deed is a document transferring legal ownership of real estate from one person (grantor) to another person (grantee). It is considered one of the most secure forms of deed, providing the grantee (recipient of the deed) with legal assurance that the property is clear of any claims or encumbrances. It is mostly used when the grantee wants to protect themselves from any errors that may arise from the grantor not understanding or improperly filling out the deed form.

What Does a Grant Deed Include?

A grant deed typically includes the name of the grantor, the name of the grantee, a description of the property involved, the legal name of the county, and a full description and acknowledgment of the terms and conditions of sale. It also includes any modifications to the sale agreed upon by the grantor and grantee, as well as a more in-depth description of what the deed is transferring and any exceptions to the transfer. It is important to note that the grant deed is different from the title deed, which contains only the legal name of the county and not any more detailed information about the property.

Why Use a Grant Deed?

Using a grant deed is the best way to ensure that all legal details associated with a property transfer are taken care of. It helps to protect the grantee from any liens or unfulfilled agreements made by the grantor. Additionally, because it is more detailed than other forms of deeds, transfer taxes may be less expensive when using a grant deed. For college students and others looking to invest in real estate, using a grant deed is a great way to protect yourself from any potential legal issues down the road.