Skip to main content
Ownership and Real Estate

Quitclaim Deed

Direct definition

A deed that transfers whatever interest the grantor has in a property, with no warranties.

Written by the Vabasso Mortgage Editorial Team · Reviewed against agency and federal sources · Read our editorial policy for how we research and review mortgage content

Plain-English explanation

Quitclaim deeds are common in divorces, family transfers, and title cleanup. They don't guarantee the grantor actually owns a clean interest.

Why it matters

Buyers in arms-length transactions almost always want a warranty deed, not a quitclaim.

Where you may see it

  • Title records
  • Divorce settlements
  • Title commitment

A real-world example

In a divorce, one spouse signs a quitclaim deed transferring their interest in the home to the other.

Educational and illustrative only

A common misunderstanding

A quitclaim deed doesn't guarantee the grantor actually owns the property free and clear — it transfers only whatever interest they may have, with no warranties.

Ask Vabasso AI

This glossary provides general educational information. Mortgage terminology, qualification methods, forms, timelines, fees, program rules, and legal meanings may vary by lender, investor, loan program, property, occupancy, state, and transaction. Definitions do not represent loan approval, legal advice, tax advice, or a commitment to lend.
Author
Vabasso Mortgage Editorial Team
Reviewed by
Vabasso Mortgage Licensed Advisory Team
Last reviewed
July 30, 2026

Related terms