How to Transfer a Deed Without an Attorney
- 1). Decide what type of deed is appropriate for the circumstances. If you sold real estate to a third party you do not have a pre-existing relationship with, use a warranty deed. With a warranty deed, there is a guarantee that the title to the property is free of any encumbrances or liens. If the transfer of real estate is between family members or to a person with whom you do have a pre-existing relationship, a quitclaim deed is appropriate. There is no guarantee the title is free of liens or encumbrances with this deed.
- 2). Obtain the appropriate deed form from the register of deeds' office.
- 3). Complete the deed form. The process of completing the deed form involves inserting the name of the new owner as well as the legal description of the property. The legal description of the real estate is available at the register of deeds office.
- 4). Sign the completed deed in front of a notary public.
- 5). File the deed with the register of deeds office. There is a fee associated with filing a deed. Typically, a register of deeds charges a flat fee for the first couple of pages of a deed and an additional charge for each page beyond the initial two. The typical quitclaim deed is a page in length. A warranty deed is longer, at least two pages.
