What Is a Deed in Real Estate?

A deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of real estate from one party to another. It includes the property’s description, names of the buyer and seller, and is signed and recorded in public records.

There are different types of deeds — warranty deeds, which guarantee a clear title; and quitclaim deeds, which transfer ownership without guarantees. In my experience, most traditional home sales use warranty deeds because they offer the buyer maximum protection. Always ensure your deed is properly recorded to make your ownership official and enforceable.