Glossary

Special purpose deeds are frequently used in connection with court proceedings and instances where the deed is from a person acting in some type of official capacity. Most special purpose deeds offer little to no protection to the grantee and are essentially quitclaim deeds. Types of special purpose deeds include but are not limited to:  Administrator’s Deed: This may be used when a person dies intestate (without a will). A court-appointed administrator will dispose of the decedent’s assets and an administrator’s deed may be used to convey the title of real property to the grantee. Executor’s Deed: This may be used when a person dies testate (with a will). The estate’s executor will dispose of the decedent’s assets and an executor’s deed may be used to convey the title or real property to the grantee. Sheriff’s Deed: This is given to the successful bidder at an execution sale held to satisfy a judgment that has been obtained against the owner of the property. The grantee receives whatever title the judgment debtor has. Tax Deed: This is issued when a property is sold for delinquent taxes. Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure: This is given by a borrower who is in default on a mortgage directly to the lender. This serves to prevent foreclosure proceedings, and if the lender accepts the deed in lieu of foreclosure, the loan is terminated. Many lenders prefer to foreclose in order to clean up the title. Deed of Gift (Gift Deed). This is used to convey the title on real property that is given for no consideration or for only a token consideration. In some states, the gift deed must be recorded within two years or it becomes void.