What does a warranty deed guarantee about the title?

A warranty deed is a legal document used in real estate transactions that provides substantial protection to the buyer. The key aspect of a warranty deed is that it guarantees the title against defects. This means that the seller is assuring the buyer that they own the property outright, that it is free from any liens or encumbrances (other than those specifically stated), and that the seller has the legal right to sell the property.

This protection extends to past issues that may affect the title, not just current ones. If any defects arise that were not disclosed at the time of the sale, the seller may be held liable. This makes the warranty deed a powerful tool in real estate transactions, ensuring that the buyer has recourse if problems with the title arise after the sale.

Other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of a warranty deed. For instance, the warranty deed does not guarantee the construction status of the property, promise future appreciation in value, or transfer maintenance responsibilities. Its primary focus is solely on the integrity and legality of the title being conveyed to the buyer.