Reviewed by Casa Academy and updated July 29, 2026 using the current DBPR checklist and Pearson VUE scheduling guidance.
Types of Deeds
Types of deeds classify conveyance instruments by the warranties the grantor gives about title quality, ranging from full covenant deeds that promise clear title back to quitclaim deeds that transfer only whatever interest the grantor may hold without warranties.
Exam context
General warranty = full covenants including prior owners. Special warranty = grantor period only. Quitclaim = no warranties. Bargain and sale = implied grantor ownership without full warranty package.
Common deed categories
General warranty deeds provide the broadest protection: the grantor covenants that title is good, will defend against claims, and covers defects even from prior owners. Special warranty deeds limit promises to defects arising during the grantor ownership period. Bargain and sale deeds imply the grantor holds title but may omit full covenants. Quitclaim deeds release whatever interest exists with no warranties, common in divorce settlements or clearing clouds.
Agent and closing implications
Deed selection affects buyer risk, title insurance coverage, and lender requirements. Most purchase transactions use warranty deeds; quitclaims rarely satisfy institutional lenders. Agents should explain that the deed type does not replace title search or insurance. State statutes may authorize grant deeds or statutory warranty forms with specific language.
Examples
Purchase closing
A seller conveys with a general warranty deed. If an undisclosed easement from 1998 surfaces, the buyer may seek damages from the seller under covenant of warranty even though the seller did not create the easement.
Divorce transfer
One spouse quitclaims interest to the other. The receiving spouse gets only whatever interest existed; no promise that title is marketable or free of liens.
Keep studying
Related terms
- Bargain and sale deedDeed with implied ownership but limited covenants.
- Title vs deedConceptual ownership vs conveyance instrument.
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