What is a Quitclaim Deed?

Quitclaim Deeds - what are they?

A Quitclaim deed is a form of Deed that conveys (read: transfers) any and all interest a person or entity (the Grantor) may have. Quitclaim Deeds convey the Grantor's interest without warranty or guarantee and regardless of title issues. 

Quitclaim deeds, although frequently used, tend to not be the best option in many cases. 

Are Quitclaim Deeds and "Quick Deeds" the same thing?

"Quick Deeds" is actually a misnomer of Quitclaim Deeds. When someone says Quick Deed or Quickclaim Deed, what they really mean is Quitclaim Deed. 

"Quickclaim" has likely stuck because Quitclaim Deeds tend to be generally simple and quick, they don't tend to involve much research, because as explained above, a Grantor using a Quitclaim Deed isn't warrantying or guaranteeing anything when they convey real property in this way.

Should you ever use a Quitclaim Deed?

Quitclaim Deeds have their place and can be very useful to terminate or transfer an interest in real property. Many times you'll find someone recording a Quitclaim Deed to terminate a Life Estate, Dower Interest, Land Contract, and even a Mortgage (Although filing a Satisfaction of Mortgage is really the better route). Frequently, Courts will order a spouse or former spouse to Quitclaim their interest in real property to the other party in a Divorce proceeding. 

Is a Quitclaim Deed the right choice for me?

Context is king. We recommend completing the Deed Preparation Request Form to connect with a licensed Ohio Real Estate Attorney to go over the details of your particular situation to find the best option.