GLOSSARY — REAL ESTATE TERMS
Grant Deed
A grant deed is the standard deed used in most California property sales, transferring ownership and including implied warranties that the seller hasn't already sold the property to someone else and that there are no undisclosed liens from the seller's own actions.
What a grant deed guarantees
Unlike a quitclaim deed, a grant deed carries two implied warranties: that the seller hasn't already conveyed the property to someone else, and that the property is free of encumbrances the seller created, except those already disclosed.
Why it's the standard for home sales
These built-in protections, combined with title insurance, are why a grant deed is the standard instrument in nearly all California residential purchases -- it gives the buyer meaningfully more assurance about what they're actually receiving than a quitclaim deed would.
WHAT TO CONFIRM ABOUT YOUR GRANT DEED AT CLOSING
- Review the deed for correct legal description and named parties before signing
- Confirm how you want to hold title (individually, jointly, in a trust)
- Verify the deed will be recorded promptly with the county after closing
- Keep a copy of the recorded deed with your permanent home purchase records
Is a grant deed the same as a warranty deed used in other states?
Similar in spirit, but California specifically uses the grant deed as its standard conveyance instrument, with its own specific implied warranties under state law.
Does a grant deed guarantee there are no liens at all?
It only warrants against encumbrances created by the seller during their ownership, not against liens or issues from earlier in the property's history -- which is exactly what title insurance is designed to cover.
Who prepares the grant deed?
Typically escrow or a title company prepares the deed as part of closing, based on the agreed terms of the sale.