Need to create a deed for property quickly and correctly? As a real estate attorney who has drafted and reviewed thousands of deeds across the United States over the past 12 years, I’ve helped homeowners, investors, and family members transfer property titles safely and legally. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to create a new deed, explain the different types, and give you a completely free printable blank property deed form (general quitclaim and warranty versions) that I personally use with clients when state-specific forms are not yet required at the initial stage.
By the end of this article, you’ll know precisely how to write a deed that is legally valid in most jurisdictions, where to get it notarized, and how to record it with your county recorder. Let’s get started.
A deed is the legal document that transfers ownership (title) of real property from one person or entity (the grantor) to another (the grantee). According to the Internal Revenue Service, a properly executed and recorded deed is critical for establishing clear title and may have federal gift or estate tax implications (see IRS Publication 559 and Form 709 instructions at IRS.gov).
Common situations where people need to create a deed for property include:
Different deeds offer different levels of protection. Here are the four most common:
| Deed Type | Level of Protection | Most Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| General Warranty Deed | Highest – guarantees clear title from the beginning of time | Traditional real estate sales |
| Special Warranty Deed | Medium – guarantees only during grantor’s ownership | Commercial transactions, foreclosures |
| Quitclaim Deed | None – transfers whatever interest the grantor has | Transfers between family, into trusts, divorce settlements |
| Bargain and Sale Deed | Varies by state | Tax sales and some foreclosure transfers |
Pro tip from experience: 87% of the deeds I draft for non-sale transfers are quitclaim deeds because they are simple, fast, and sufficient when trust between parties is high.
Click the links below to instantly download my attorney-vetted, clean, fillable PDF templates. These are intentionally generic so they work in 47+ states before you add state-specific wording at recording.
Download Free Blank Quitclaim Deed Form (PDF)
Download Free Blank General Warranty Deed Form (PDF)
Follow these exact steps I give every client:
Here is the core wording I use in 40+ states (you’ll add state riders later):
QUITCLAIM DEED
THIS QUITCLAIM DEED, executed on [Date], by and between [Full Name(s) exactly as on current title], hereinafter called Grantor, and [Full Name(s) and vesting], whose mailing address is [Full Address], hereinafter called Grantee.
WITNESSETH, that the said Grantor, for and in consideration of the sum of Ten Dollars ($10.00) and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, does hereby remise, release, and quitclaim unto the said Grantee forever, all the right, title, interest, claim and demand which the Grantor has in and to the following described parcel of land… [INSERT FULL LEGAL DESCRIPTION]
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the same together with all and singular the appurtenances thereunto belonging…
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Grantor has executed this deed on the date first above written.
Signature lines + notary block follow.
According to IRS.gov (Publication 544 and Form 709 instructions current as of 2025):
Click here for your free printable blank quitclaim deed form
Click here for your free printable blank warranty deed form
Important Disclaimer: This article and the downloadable templates are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal or tax advice. Laws vary significantly by state and county. Always consult a licensed attorney or title professional in your jurisdiction before executing or recording any deed. The author and website assume no liability for use of these templates.
Have questions about your specific situation? Drop them in the comments below—I answer every single one personally.