5 Types of Property Deeds in a Land Purchase

[IMAGE: Property deed document on a table with pen | Alt: Land purchase deed document ready to be signed]

When you get to the stage of purchasing a property, a property deed is used to transfer the title from the current owner to you. Before you sign anything, you need to understand what each type of deed actually protects — and what it doesn't.

How is a Property Deed Different from Property Title?

Title and deed are not the same thing. The title is the legal concept of ownership — the rights to the property. The deed is the physical document that transfers those rights from seller to buyer.

Property Chain of Title

Before you purchase any property, especially rural vacant land, establish the chain of title. This means you can track the property's previous owners back at least 30-40 years with no gaps.

What is a Property Deed?

A property deed is a legal document that actually transfers property ownership. Per the Statute of Frauds, a deed must be a physical piece of paper, signed by all parties. It must include the subject matter, costs, the buyer and seller, and any other parties involved.

5 Types of Deeds

1. Warranty Deed

The seller guarantees there were no title issues for the property's entire history. The highest level of protection for a land buyer.

2. Special Warranty Deed

The seller only guarantees against issues during their ownership — not the full history.

3. Quitclaim Deed

Usually used between family members. No guarantee of title chain or that the property is free of liens. Almost no protection for the buyer.

4. Bargain and Sale Deed

Transfers the right to sell the property. No guarantees around title or debts. Use with extreme caution.

5. Grant Deed

Guarantees the seller hasn't already sold the title to someone else — but doesn't guarantee the title chain is clear.