How to Make a Free Quitclaim Deed

Quitclaim deeds relinquish any and all rights to the deeded property.
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Quitclaim deeds are relatively easy to draft. Downloadable sample quitclaim deeds are available at many websites including www.washingtonlawhelp.org. You can also purchase blank quitclaim deed forms at many print shops and companies like Office Max or Staples for a few dollars. Quitclaim deeds do not convey any warranty of title.

Similar to quitclaim deeds are disclaimer deeds. The major difference between quitclaim deeds and disclaimer deeds is that quitclaim deeds assume that the person executing a quitclaim deed had some ownership interest at one time and he is giving up all title and interest in the property. Disclaimer deeds are generally used to eliminate community property interests that one spouse has or had.

Step 1

Type "When recorded return to..." and insert the name and address of the party receiving the quitclaim deed (grantee) at the top left side of the page. It is best to include the party's telephone number as well.

Step 2

Type "This space provided for Recorder's use" in the top right corner of the deed.

Step 3

Type "Quitclaim Deed" in the middle of the page.

Step 4

Type "The Grantor(s), (insert the name of the party or parties executing the deed), for and in consideration of (one dollar or other stated amount paid) convey(s) and quitclaim(s) to the Grantee(s), (insert name(s) of quitclaim recipient(s)), the following described real property, situated in the County of (name), State of (insert state name), together with all after acquired title of the Grantor(s) therein (legal description of property and/or Assessor Parcel Number (APN)).

Step 5

Type the date(s) of execution of the deed. Provide lines for the Grantor(s) signature(s). All grantors executing the deed must sign the deed before a notary public. Provide a space for the notary oath and notary seal as well as typing "My commission expires ___."

Step 6

Sign the notary book and provide the identification verification information required by your state (e.g., driver's license or state identification number). You may have to pay a notary fee (usually just a few dollars).

Step 7

File the quitclaim deed with the county recorder's office and pay the appropriate recording fee. Although not required, the quitclaim deed only constitutes "actual or constructive notice" upon recordation. Failure to provide legal notice (accomplished by recordation) can result in legal complications by creating a "cloud on title."

Warnings

  • Be sure that you really want to transfer your rights prior to executing a quitclaim. Once executed, you will lose any and all interest you may have in the property.

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