--- title: Quitclaim Deed Definition | What Is A Quit Claim Deed description: Although similar in purpose to a general warranty deed, quitclaim deeds have unique features that differentiate them. image: https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/Images/photo/abstract/AS-deed-and-laptop-198047190.jpg --- [![Realized 1031 Exchange Marketplace](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/Brand/Logo/Realized/Realized-Logo-Black.png?width=240&height=80&name=Realized-Logo-Black.png "Realized 1031 Logo") ](https://www.realized1031.com/) - [Wealth Management Gap](https://www.realized1031.com/the-wealth-management-gap) - [Our Process](https://www.realized1031.com/how-realized-works) - [Financial Advisors](https://www.realized1031.com/advisor) - [Resources](https://www.realized1031.com/resources) - [The Company](https://www.realized1031.com/about-us) - [Articles](https://www.realized1031.com/blog) [Register](https://www.realized1031.com/marketplace) [Log In](https://www.realized1031.com/login) - Better Business Bureau Rating: **A+** - [FINRA BrokerCheck](https://brokercheck.finra.org/firm/summary/22333) - [Call](tel:1-877-797-1031) **(877) 797-1031** # What Is A Quitclaim Deed? Posted Aug 29, 2019 ![AS-deed-and-laptop-198047190](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/photo/abstract/AS-deed-and-laptop-198047190.jpg?width=650&name=AS-deed-and-laptop-198047190.jpg) If you have ever purchased or sold real estate, you may have received or been granted a deed in the process. If it was a traditional transaction between unrelated parties, you probably came across what is called a general warranty deed, which provided you assurance as a buyer that the seller owned the property outright, or vice versa. However, it is possible that you have never handled or been issued a quitclaim deed. Although similar in purpose to a general warranty deed, quitclaim deeds have unique features that differentiate them. ### Defining a Quitclaim Deed.  A type of deed less common than a general warranty deed that serves a similar purpose with a lower level of buyer protection is a quitclaim deed. Quit claim deeds are used to transfer an owner’s entire interest in a property. If an individual or entity quitclaiming only holds a 25 percent interest in the property, only that 25 percent interest is involved in the transfer of ownership.  What differentiates a quitclaim deed from other types of deeds (particularly general warranty or special warranty deeds) is that it transfers the title on the deed between two counterparties but makes no guarantees about the seller’s title. General warranty deeds guarantee that the seller of the property has the right to transfer the property to you and that there are no liens against the property from a mortgage lender, the Internal Revenue Service, or any other type of creditor. Quit claim deeds contain no warranties to the title and do not require a title search or title insurance.  For example, in a situation where a seller transfers ownership of a property to a buyer using a general warranty deed, but liens do still exist on the property involved in the transaction, the buyer has the right to sue the seller for legal damages. In a similar scenario where the grantor transfers ownership of the property with a quitclaim deed, the grantee does not hold the same protection in the event a seller is not forthright in disclosing the rights of one or several creditors to the property.  Transferring ownership stake in a property with a quitclaim deed does not rid a grantor liability on any liens or mortgages on the property. In a scenario where a grantor transfers ownership in a property to a grantee and there is still a mortgage agreement associated with that property, the grantor is still on the hook for that mortgage unless a separate legal document exists stating the grantee must pay the remaining balance of the mortgage on the property. In other words, a quitclaim deed can transfer ownership of the property, but separate documentation is required to transfer liability on the mortgage of the stated property. ### When to use a Quitclaim Deed.  Given the lack of protection a buyer holds in acquiring a property or properties using a quitclaim deed, it is important to understand the value of a quitclaim deed and the right situation in which to use it. For this reason, quitclaim deeds are a vehicle most commonly used to quickly transfer real estate between family members, recently married couples, divorcing spouses, or into a living trust. Quit claim deeds can also be used to clear up title defects in instances where the wording on a deed is incorrect, a signature is missing, a deed contains misspellings, or in instances when an unrelated individual has an ownership stake in the property. In this case, the person may be asked to sign a quitclaim deed to ensure the title is clear.  A quitclaim deed is often referred to as a “quick claim” deed because of its ability to expedite the ownership transfer process. They are commonly used in transactions between individuals who know each other; not in a formal transfer of real estate between two unfamiliar entities. A quitclaim deed must include: - A legal description of the property involved in the transaction  - The county in which the property is located - The date of the transfer  - Name of the person receiving property and the person transferring the property  - The price (if applicable) and the signature of the grantor.  Depending on the state, the deed may have to be notarized or may require witnesses upon signing. ### The bottom line.  A quitclaim deed conveys to the grantee whatever interest the grantor held in the property. It is considered the deed with the least amount of buyer protection, meaning there are no warranties promising the quality of the title and thus protecting a buyer. A quitclaim deed contains no title covenant, therefore offering the grantee no warranty to the title. It provides the grantee no option for legal recourse in the event a grantor owns no interest in a property or owns an interest in a property with liens on a mortgage.  It is critical to understand the risks associated with using a quitclaim deed to transfer ownership in a property. You should not use a quitclaim deed in a situation where the grantor is an unfamiliar individual or entity, due to the lack of legal recourse available to a grantee. You should only use a quitclaim deed to transfer ownership of a property or properties with someone you know and trust, whether that be a family member, spouse via a recent marriage, or a former spouse following a divorce.  Learn Ways To Help Build Long-Term Real Estate Wealth [![Get Tips For Managing Real Estate Wealth](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/graphics/composites/IPWM-eBook-250c.jpg?width=250&height=250&name=IPWM-eBook-250c.jpg "Learn new ways to use real ...") ](https://www.realized1031.com/blog/what-is-a-quitclaim-deed#blogform) Download eBook ---   --- ### Get Tips For Managing Real Estate Wealth ![Learn Ways To Help Build Long-Term Real Estate Wealth](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/graphics/composites/IPWM-eBook-550.jpg?width=550&height=650&name=IPWM-eBook-550.jpg) Learn new ways to use real estate to pursue your wealth goals. By providing your email and phone number, you are opting to receive communications from Realized. If you receive a text message and choose to stop receiving further messages, reply STOP to immediately unsubscribe. Msg & Data rates may apply. To manage receiving emails from Realized visit the Manage Preferences link in any email received. Search ### [Why Realized](https://www.realized1031.com/why-realized) - [Wealth Management](https://www.realized1031.com/the-wealth-management-gap) - [Why Realized](https://www.realized1031.com/why-realized) - [Our Process](https://www.realized1031.com/how-realized-works) - [Scenarios](https://www.realized1031.com/scenarios) - [Private Client Program](https://www.realized1031.com/private-client) - [Realized Exchange Services](https://www.realized1031.com/realized-exchange-services) ### [The Company](https://www.realized1031.com/about-us) - [The Team](https://www.realized1031.com/about-us) - [FAQ](https://www.realized1031.com/frequently-asked-questions) - [Testimonials](https://www.realized1031.com/testimonials) - [Press](https://www.realized1031.com/press) - [Careers](https://www.realized1031.com/careers) ### [Partners](https://www.realized1031.com/partners) - [Financial Advisors](https://www.realized1031.com/advisor) - [Broker Dealers](https://www.realized1031.com/partners/broker-dealers) - [Real Estate Agents](https://www.realized1031.com/partners/real-estate-agents) - [Certified Public Accountants](https://www.realized1031.com/partners/certified-public-accountants) ### [Resources](https://www.realized1031.com/resources) - #### Learn - [Articles](https://www.realized1031.com/blog) - [Glossary of Terms](https://www.realized1031.com/glossary) - [Capital Gains Tax Rates](https://www.realized1031.com/capital-gains-tax-rate) - #### Watch - [Video Library](https://www.realized1031.com/videos) - [Webinar Archive](https://www.realized1031.com/webinars) - #### Read - [Delaware Statutory Trust](https://www.realized1031.com/delaware-statutory-trust) - [Tenants-In-Common](https://www.realized1031.com/tenants-in-common-tic) - [1031 Exchange](https://www.realized1031.com/1031-exchange) - [Qualified Intermediary](https://www.realized1031.com/qualified-intermediary) - [Qualified Opportunity Zones](https://www.realized1031.com/opportunity-zones) #### Realized - 500 W 13th Street Austin, TX 78701 - (877) 797-1031 ##### [Contact Us](https://www.realized1031.com/contact-us) - [![Realized on Facebook](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/Social/Icons/Mix/social-facebook-whiterev.png?width=60&height=60&name=social-facebook-whiterev.png)](https://www.facebook.com/Realized/) - [![Realized on LinkedIn](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/Social/Icons/Mix/social-linkedin-whiterev.png?width=60&height=60&name=social-linkedin-whiterev.png)](https://www.linkedin.com/company/realized/) - [![Realized on YouTube](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/UI/Social/Icons/Mix/social-youtube-whiterev.png?width=60&height=60&name=social-youtube-whiterev.png)](https://www.youtube.com/c/Realized1031?sub_confirmation=1) - [![Realized Holdings, Inc. BBB Business Review](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/professional-assoc/bbb/RZH2-bbb-seal.png?width=40&height=65&name=RZH2-bbb-seal.png)](http://www.bbb.org/central-texas/business-reviews/real-estate-investors/realized-holdings-llc-in-austin-tx-1000112948/#bbbonlineclick) - [![FEA Logo](https://www.realized1031.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/professional-assoc/fea/RZH2-fea-logo.png?width=82&height=65&name=RZH2-fea-logo.png "FEA Logo")](https://www.1031.org) SECURITIES DISCLOSURE Realized1031.com is a website operated by Realized Technologies, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Realized Holdings, Inc. (“Realized Holdings”). Securities and/or Investment Advisory Services may be offered through Registered Representatives or Investment Advisor Representatives of Realized Financial, Inc. ("Realized"), a broker/dealer, member [FINRA](https://www.finra.org)/[SIPC](https://www.sipc.org/), and registered investment adviser. Realized is a subsidiary of Realized Holdings, Inc. ("Realized Holdings"). Check the background of this firm on [FINRA's BrokerCheck](https://brokercheck.finra.org/firm/summary/22333). Hypothetical example(s) are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to represent the past or future performance of any specific investment. Investing in alternative assets involves higher risks than traditional investments and is suitable only for sophisticated investors. Alternative investments are often sold by prospectus that discloses all risks, fees, and expenses. They are not tax efficient and an investor should consult with his/her tax advisor prior to investing. Alternative investments have higher fees than traditional investments and they may also be highly leveraged and engage in speculative investment techniques, which can magnify the potential for investment loss or gain and should not be deemed a complete investment program. The value of the investment may fall as well as rise and investors may get back less than they invested. This site is published for residents of the United States who are accredited investors only. Registered Representatives and Investment Advisor Representatives may only conduct business with residents of the states and jurisdictions in which they are properly registered. Therefore, a response to a request for information may be delayed until appropriate registration is obtained or exemption from registration is determined. Not all of services referenced on this site are available in every state and through every representative listed. For additional information, please contact the Realized Compliance department at 512-472-7171 or info@realized1031.com. - [Terms & Conditions](https://www.realized1031.com/terms-and-conditions) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.realized1031.com/privacy-policy) - [Form CRS](https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/common-files/disclosures/FormCRS.pdf) - [ADV 2A](https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/common-files/disclosures/ADV2A.pdf) - [Reg BI Disclosures](https://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/common-files/disclosures/RegBI.pdf) -   © 2026 Realized Holdings, Inc. ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org/", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "If you have ever purchased or sold real estate, you may have received or been granted a deed in the process. If it was a traditional transaction between unrelated parties, you probably came across what is called a general warranty deed, which provided you assurance as a buyer that the seller owned the property outright, or vice versa. However, it is possible that you have never handled or been issued a quitclaim deed. Although similar in purpose to a general warranty deed, quitclaim deeds have unique features that differentiate them. Defining a Quitclaim Deed. A type of deed less common than a general warranty deed that serves a similar purpose with a lower level of buyer protection is a quitclaim deed. Quit claim deeds are used to transfer an owner’s entire interest in a property. If an individual or entity quitclaiming only holds a 25 percent interest in the property, only that 25 percent interest is involved in the transfer of ownership. What differentiates a quitclaim deed from other types of deeds (particularly general warranty or special warranty deeds) is that it transfers the title on the deed between two counterparties but makes no guarantees about the seller’s title. General warranty deeds guarantee that the seller of the property has the right to transfer the property to you and that there are no liens against the property from a mortgage lender, the Internal Revenue Service, or any other type of creditor. Quit claim deeds contain no warranties to the title and do not require a title search or title insurance. For example, in a situation where a seller transfers ownership of a property to a buyer using a general warranty deed, but liens do still exist on the property involved in the transaction, the buyer has the right to sue the seller for legal damages. In a similar scenario where the grantor transfers ownership of the property with a quitclaim deed, the grantee does not hold the same protection in the event a seller is not forthright in disclosing the rights of one or several creditors to the property. Transferring ownership stake in a property with a quitclaim deed does not rid a grantor liability on any liens or mortgages on the property. In a scenario where a grantor transfers ownership in a property to a grantee and there is still a mortgage agreement associated with that property, the grantor is still on the hook for that mortgage unless a separate legal document exists stating the grantee must pay the remaining balance of the mortgage on the property. In other words, a quitclaim deed can transfer ownership of the property, but separate documentation is required to transfer liability on the mortgage of the stated property. When to use a Quitclaim Deed. Given the lack of protection a buyer holds in acquiring a property or properties using a quitclaim deed, it is important to understand the value of a quitclaim deed and the right situation in which to use it. For this reason, quitclaim deeds are a vehicle most commonly used to quickly transfer real estate between family members, recently married couples, divorcing spouses, or into a living trust. Quit claim deeds can also be used to clear up title defects in instances where the wording on a deed is incorrect, a signature is missing, a deed contains misspellings, or in instances when an unrelated individual has an ownership stake in the property. In this case, the person may be asked to sign a quitclaim deed to ensure the title is clear. A quitclaim deed is often referred to as a “quick claim” deed because of its ability to expedite the ownership transfer process. They are commonly used in transactions between individuals who know each other; not in a formal transfer of real estate between two unfamiliar entities. A quitclaim deed must include: A legal description of the property involved in the transaction The county in which the property is located The date of the transfer Name of the person receiving property and the person transferring the property The price (if applicable) and the signature of the grantor. Depending on the state, the deed may have to be notarized or may require witnesses upon signing. The bottom line. A quitclaim deed conveys to the grantee whatever interest the grantor held in the property. It is considered the deed with the least amount of buyer protection, meaning there are no warranties promising the quality of the title and thus protecting a buyer. A quitclaim deed contains no title covenant, therefore offering the grantee no warranty to the title. It provides the grantee no option for legal recourse in the event a grantor owns no interest in a property or owns an interest in a property with liens on a mortgage. It is critical to understand the risks associated with using a quitclaim deed to transfer ownership in a property. You should not use a quitclaim deed in a situation where the grantor is an unfamiliar individual or entity, due to the lack of legal recourse available to a grantee. You should only use a quitclaim deed to transfer ownership of a property or properties with someone you know and trust, whether that be a family member, spouse via a recent marriage, or a former spouse following a divorce.", "articleSection" : [ "Real Estate Investing" ], "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "email" : "marketing@realized1031.com", "image" : "", "name" : "The Realized Team", "url" : "https://www.realized1031.com/blog/author/the-realized-team" }, "dateModified" : "2020-12-02T22:09:13+0000", "datePublished" : "2020-12-02T22:09:13+0000", "description" : "Although similar in purpose to a general warranty deed, quitclaim deeds have unique features that differentiate them.", "headline" : "What Is A Quitclaim Deed?", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 434, "url" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/733513/Images/photo/abstract/AS-deed-and-laptop-198047190.jpg", "width" : 650 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.realized1031.com/blog/what-is-a-quitclaim-deed", "name" : "What Is A Quitclaim Deed?", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "USA", "addressLocality" : "Austin", "addressRegion" : "TX", "postalCode" : "78701", "streetAddress" : "500 W 13th Street " }, "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 60, "url" : "http://www.realized1031.com/hubfs/Images/Brand/Logo/Realized/Realized-Logo-Black-No-Margin-296x60-AMP.png", "width" : 296 }, "name" : "Realized" }, "thumbnailUrl" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/733513/Images/photo/abstract/AS-deed-and-laptop-198047190.jpg" } ```