Deeds FAQ
Quitclaim deeds, grant deeds, warranty deeds, trust deeds -- answers to frequently asked questions about deeds.
What is a deed? What type of deed -- grant, quitclaim, warranty -- should I use?
How do you take ownership of property as tenants in common or as joint tenants? What's the difference?
Does a deed have to be notarized, witnessed, or filed?
» Is a trust deed or a contract for deed an actual deed?
Is a trust deed or a contract for deed an actual deed?
A trust deed (also called a deed of trust) isn't like the other types of deeds; it's not used to transfer property. It's really just a version of a mortgage, commonly used in some states (California, for example). A trust deed transfers title to land to a "trustee," usually a trust or title company, which holds the land as security for a loan. When the loan is paid off, title is transferred to the borrower. The trustee has no powers unless the borrower defaults on the loan; then the trustee can sell the property and pay the lender back from the proceeds, without first going to court.
A contract for deed is not really a deed at all. Also known as a "contract of sale,” “land sale contract,” or “installment sales contract,” it's used when a seller finances a property for a buyer. The contract states that the seller will keep title to the property until the buyer pays off the loan. For more information, see How does seller financing work in a home sale?
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