The current deed
Or the legal description from the county record, which we can pull.
How the deed transfer works when you donate property
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How the Deed Transfer Works When You Donate Property
Every real estate donation ends with a deed: the document that moves title from you to Giving Center and is recorded in the property’s county. Real Estate with Causes prepares the deed ourselves, in the form the property’s state requires, and records it. Here is which kind of deed is used, what goes on it and what happens at the recorder’s office.
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Which kind of deed
States use different deed forms, and the choice affects what you promise about title. A general warranty deed guarantees clear title against all claims; a special warranty or grant deed covers only your period of ownership; a quitclaim deed conveys whatever interest you hold with no promises.
What we usually use
The form customary in the property’s state for a gift, chosen so you are not guaranteeing more than you should. We explain the choice before you sign.
Entity and fiduciary deeds
Trustees, executors and LLC managers sign in their representative capacity, with the form that capacity requires.
Recording, transfer tax and filings
After you sign before a notary, we record the deed with the county recorder or register of deeds. Recording puts the world on notice that the property is ours.
Some states charge a transfer or recordation tax on gifts and some exempt them. Many also require a transfer declaration or affidavit of value even when no money changes hands. We prepare what the state requires.
What we need from you
The deed is short. These are the only things we ask for.
Everyone on title
Each owner, or the person with authority to sign for an estate, trust or entity.
A notary where you live
Any notary will do. Some states require specific acknowledgment wording, which we include.
Deed transfer questions, answered
Do you pull title before accepting a property? +
Rarely. We review the county record and ask about anything owed. A title search comes up only in unusual situations.
Who pays the recording fee? +
We prepare and record the deed. State transfer taxes vary; where a state places the tax on the grantee, it is ours.
Do I need a lawyer to sign the deed? +
No, a notary is enough. You are welcome to have your attorney review the deed first.
How long does recording take? +
Most counties record within days of receiving the signed original; some take several weeks to return the recorded copy.
What if there is an old mortgage or lien that was paid but never released? +
Tell us. An unreleased lien is a paperwork problem that can usually be cleared with the old lender before or after recording.
We do not provide tax or legal advice. See IRS Publication 526, Publication 561 and the Form 8283 instructions, and consult your own advisor.
Related guides
Tell us about the property and we will review it
We prepare the deed for the property’s state and record it in its county.