Recording A Deed

Recording the deed is not required by law in order for the transfer from the seller to the buyer to take place. However, in order for the buyer to protect themselves from future claims on the title, the deed should be recorded. A deed is considered complete once it has been signed, sealed and delivered This should be done at the time of closing or as soon after the close of escrow as possible.

The deed becomes a public record and is part of the property's chain of title. If anyone were to look up your property, your name would show up as the official owner. You should be sure that your name and address are correct on the deed, as real estate tax bills are generated from these deeds.

The document must be acknowledged by an authorized person, such as a judge or notary public and only written documents affecting an interest in property may be recorded. The acknowledgment can not verify the identity of the person signing the document, and not make any statement or guarantee as to the validity of the document itself.

In some states, whenever a deed is recorded, the buyer must also sign a Preliminary Change In ownership Report. These reports are used by the assessor to determine which properties are exempt from property tax. In most states, transfer taxes must be paid when a deed is recorded. Depending on your area, the tax will vary, but will be generally based on a rate per $1,000.00.of value or consideration or the price paid for the property. These charges are typically paid by the seller.