Glossary

A quitclaim deed is used to transfer property between familiar parties, such as family members or even divorced spouses. A quitclaim deed offers little legal protection to the grantee (the recipient of the transfer).  If the grantor turns out not to legally own the property outlined in the deed, the grantee can’t take legal action.  In addition, there are no legal protections against liens or other encumbrances that might exist on the property. Quitclaim deeds involve a high degree of trust as a result, and are preferred by people who know each other well.  This type of deed can also be used if the grantor isn’t entirely sure of the title’s status, and whether or not it has any defects.