Just A Deed? Why Self-Made Deeds Can Be A Problem

      In order to transfer real estate, whether it’s a sale, distribution out of a probate estate, or a gift to a loved one, the person transferring the land must sign a deed. There are several types of deeds – general warranty, special warranty, and quit claim being the most common – that transfer property. A deed is usually only a few pages long and forms can be taken off the internet to fill out, print, sign, and record.

           But watch out. It is tempting to view deeds as simple, easy-to-do forms that can be done without an attorney’s help (and those corresponding fees). However, real estate transfers and the deeds that make them possible are read carefully in courts. This means that any mistake in drafting or filling out a deed can have catastrophic and unintended consequences. More importantly, trying to save a little now and filling out your own deed work can be costly if that deed creates litigation that lands you in court.

           The bottom line is that hiring an attorney for deed work is important and can avoid bad outcomes in land ownership that no one wanted, but that the law requires. The team at Breeze Westhoff can assist you in advising on the best way to transfer real estate to avoid litigation and will draft up the deed work for you to meet your goals. Contact us today to get started.