Deeds and Conveyances

Understanding the Different Types of Property Deeds

When buying, selling, or transferring real estate, the type of deed used plays a critical role in defining ownership rights and protecting your interests. Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or landlord, understanding the various types of property deeds can help you make informed legal decisions and avoid costly title issues down the road.

Warranty Deed (General Warranty Deed)

A Warranty Deed provides the highest level of protection to the buyer. This type of deed guarantees that the seller (grantor) holds clear title to the property and has the legal right to sell it. It covers any title defects, both during and prior to the grantor’s ownership.

Key Benefits:

• Full title protection for the buyer
• Includes covenants against encumbrances and promises to defend against future claims
• Commonly used in standard residential real estate transactions

Why It Matters: Ideal for buyers who want peace of mind and legal protection when purchasing property.

Quitclaim Deed

A Quitclaim Deed is a simple method to transfer property ownership without any guarantees or warranties. It conveys whatever interest the grantor has in the property—if any at all.

Key Benefits:

• Quick and easy way to transfer ownership
• Often used between family members or in divorce settlements
• No title guarantees or legal protection for the buyer

Why It Matters: Best used in low-risk scenarios or between trusted parties. It’s not recommended for traditional real estate purchases.

Special Warranty Deed

A Special Warranty Deed offers a limited warranty—the grantor only guarantees that the property was free from defects during their period of ownership, not before.

Key Benefits:

• Limited title protection
• Positive conveyance of interest
• Common in commercial real estate and investment property sales

Why It Matters: Offers more protection than a quitclaim deed, but less than a general warranty deed. Ideal when the grantor is only willing to take responsibility for their own actions.

Lady Bird Deeds (Enhanced Life Estate Deeds) in Florida

Simplify your estate plan and protect your property with a Lady Bird Deed.

If you’re a Florida homeowner looking for a simple, cost-effective way to pass property to your heirs—without probate—a Lady Bird Deed, also known as an Enhanced Life Estate Deed, could be the perfect solution.

What Is a Lady Bird Deed?

A Lady Bird Deed is a special type of life estate deed used in Florida that lets you:

• Keep full control of your property while you’re alive
• Name beneficiaries who automatically inherit the property when you pass away
• Avoid probate court completely

This deed allows you to live in your home, refinance it, rent it out, or even sell it—without needing anyone else’s permission. Your beneficiaries only gain ownership once you pass, and the property skips the lengthy probate process.

Benefits of a Lady Bird Deed in Florida

• Avoid Probate: Property transfers instantly to your heirs without court delays.
• Retain Control: You can change or revoke the deed at any time during your life.
• Cost-Effective: No need to set up an expensive trust just to transfer your home.
• Privacy & Speed: Keep your estate matters out of public probate records.
• Medicaid Planning: In many cases, it helps protect your home from Medicaid estate recovery.

Who Should Use a Lady Bird Deed?

A Lady Bird Deed is ideal for:

• Florida homeowners with a clear plan for who should receive their property
• Seniors doing Medicaid planning
• Parents leaving property to children
• Anyone looking to avoid probate for real estate

Why Choosing the Right Deed Is So Important

Each real estate deed comes with different levels of protection, responsibilities, and legal implications. Whether you’re transferring property to a family member or investing in rental units, selecting the correct type of deed is essential for:

• Title protection
• Clear ownership
• Estate planning
• Risk mitigation

Need help preparing or reviewing a property deed? Our experienced real estate attorneys offer deed preparation, legal consultations, and property transfer services tailored to your needs. Explore our subscription plans or book a consultation today.

Why Choose Us?

We specialize in Florida estate planning, real estate law, and LLC formation for investors. With our subscription-based legal services, you get expert support for a flat monthly fee—with no surprise costs.

Whether you’re planning your legacy or protecting your real estate assets, our attorneys are here to make the process easy, affordable, and legally sound.