What is the difference between a warranty deed and a quitclaim deed?

A warranty deed and a quitclaim deed are two types of deeds used in real estate transactions in Massachusetts. Both are legal documents that convey ownership in a property from one person to another. The main difference between them is the level of protection given to the new owner. A warranty deed provides the buyer with a guarantee from the seller that the title to the property is clear and that the seller has the right to transfer it. With this type of deed, the seller guarantees that there are no liens or unresolved claims on the property, along with other promises. The warranty guarantees the buyer’s ownership of the property, as well as protection from any claims by other third parties. A quitclaim deed, on the other hand, does not provide the buyer with any guarantees. This kind of deed conveys whatever ownership rights the seller has in the property, if any. The seller of a quitclaim deed does not make any warranties about the property and does not guarantee the buyer’s ownership rights. This type of deed is typically used in cases where the seller wants to transfer ownership of the property, but doesn’t have all the information needed to provide a warranty deed. Both warranty and quitclaim deeds are legally binding documents in Massachusetts. Buyers should be aware of the protection they have with a warranty deed, as well as the limitations of a quitclaim deed.

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