Warranty Deed vs. Quitclaim Deed
The difference between a deed that guarantees title and one that promises nothing.
What is the difference between a warranty deed and a quitclaim deed?
The difference is the guarantee. A warranty deed promises that the grantor holds good, clear title and will defend it against claims. A quitclaim deed transfers only whatever interest the grantor has, with no promises at all. The deed you use decides who bears the risk of a title problem.
Warranty deed
A general warranty deed gives the buyer the strongest protection: the grantor guarantees the title going all the way back, not just for its own period of ownership. If a covered title defect surfaces later, the buyer has a claim against the grantor's warranties — usually alongside title insurance.
Which should you use?
For an arm's-length purchase, a buyer wants a warranty deed (or, in many commercial deals, a special warranty deed). A quitclaim is for low-risk transfers between trusted parties. Matching the deed to the deal is what protects the buyer.
How Nochumson P.C. helps
Nochumson P.C. prepares the right deed for each transaction and reviews deeds before you sign. Contact us to get the deed right.
Related articles:
- Quitclaim Deed in Pennsylvania: When & How to Use One
- Special Warranty Deed in Pennsylvania
- Title Insurance in Pennsylvania: What Buyers Should Know
- Fee Simple Ownership, Explained
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