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

The main distinction between a warranty deed and a quitclaim deed lies in the level of assurance they provide regarding the title of the property. A warranty deed effectively guarantees that the grantor holds a clear and unencumbered title to the property and that they have the legal right to transfer ownership. This type of deed comes with specific covenants or promises about the state of the title, thus providing the grantee with a significant assurance against any future claims or issues related to the title.

In contrast, a quitclaim deed offers no such assurances. It conveys whatever interest the grantor has in the property, with no guarantee that the title is clear or that the grantor even has any interest at all. This makes a quitclaim deed a riskier option for the grantee, as they receive no protection against potential defects in the title.

The other options do not accurately represent the fundamental differences between these two types of deeds. For example, while quitclaim deeds can certainly be filed with the county, they are not required to be filed in every situation. Moreover, warranty deeds can be revoked in certain circumstances, and quitclaim deeds can be used for both residential and commercial properties, not limited to just residential real estate.