51 jurisdictions

Property deed types

Every deed does one job. Pick the outcome you want and the instrument follows, or start from the goal picker and let us route you.

Deeds that transfer ownership now

The transfer happens the moment the deed is signed and delivered.

Quitclaim deed$39Transfers whatever interest you have in a property, with no promises about the title.

General warranty deed$69Transfers ownership with the strongest title guarantees the law allows.

Special warranty deed$69Transfers ownership, but only guarantees the title for the period you owned it.

Gift deed$39Transfers property to someone as an outright gift, for no payment.

Deeds that transfer at death

You keep the property while you're alive; it passes outside probate when you die.

Transfer-on-death deed33 statesNames who inherits your property, skips probate, and changes nothing while you're alive.

Lady bird deed5 statesAn enhanced life estate deed: you keep total control for life, and the property passes automatically at death.

Life estate deed$69You keep the right to live in the property for life; named remaindermen own it after you.

Beneficiary deed4 statesNames who inherits your property, skips probate, and changes nothing while you're alive.

Not sure which?

Answer three questionsWe route you to the right instrument for your state, or tell you honestly when this needs an attorney.

What is a quitclaim deed?A quitclaim deed transfers whatever interest you have in a property with no promises about the title. Here is what that means, when it is the right tool, and the three things it does not do.

What is a warranty deed?A warranty deed transfers ownership with the strongest title guarantees the law allows. Here are the six covenants, what they actually protect you from, and why sellers should think twice.

What is a special warranty deed?A special warranty deed guarantees the title only for the period the grantor owned the property. Here is what that covers, what it leaves exposed, and who uses one.

What is a lady bird deed?A lady bird deed is an enhanced life estate deed: you keep total control of your property for life and it passes to your beneficiaries without probate. Recognized in 5 states.

What is a transfer on death deed?A transfer on death deed names who inherits your real estate, skips probate, and changes nothing while you're alive. Available in 32 states plus DC.

Deedly is not a law firm

We provide self-help software and state-specific statutory forms; you make your own decisions about your property. Using Deedly does not create an attorney-client relationship, and nothing here is legal advice. If your situation is complex or contested, talk to a licensed attorney in your state.