Deed Transfers

Deed Transfers Attorney in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania

According to data published by Statista, approximately 5.34 million existing homes were sold in the United States in 2019. When a property is sold in Pennsylvania, a deed is used to transfer ownership to the new owner. The deed identifies the buyer, seller, purchase price, and provides a detailed legal description of the property. If you want to transfer your property to another party or you're trying to understand the deed transfer process, consulting with an experienced Pennsylvania real estate law attorney is important.


At Law Office of David Downey, I am committed to offering legal services and comprehensive guidance in real estate matters. I'm available to discuss your needs and help you understand your deed transfer options. As your legal counsel, I can provide the experienced legal support and advocacy you need to ensure a smooth and legal real estate transaction.


My firm, Law Office of David Downey, proudly serves clients across King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding communities of Delaware County, Philadelphia County, and Montgomery County.

Understanding Deed Transfers

In Pennsylvania, transferring the title to a real estate property requires the transfer to be expressed in writing, usually in the form of a deed. A deed can be described as a legal document that is used to transfer the ownership or title of a real estate property from one owner to another.

Furthermore, the deed contains:

  • The name(s) of the current owner(s)
  • The name(s) of the new owner(s)
  • The legal description of the property
  • Information about the purchase price

For the deed to be legally binding, it must be:

  • Signed by the grantor (person transferring the property)
  • Signed in front of or acknowledged by a notary public
  • Recorded in the Recorder of Deeds office in the county where the real estate property is located
  • a man and a woman are sitting at a table with a judge 's gavel .

Recording Requirements in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania state law provides some basic requirements before a deed can be recorded in the Recorder of Deeds office. These include:

  • The deed must be prepared on a white paper with a dimension of 8½" by 11"
  • The deed must have a minimum 10-point font and one-inch margins on all pages
  • The deed must identify the municipality and county where the real estate property is located
  • The deed must include a notary's acknowledgment for any signature on it
  • The deed must include relevant information about any transfer taxes due

Options for Transferring Deeds

There are various deed options for transferring real property in Pennsylvania. They include:

  • Quitclaim Deed

    A quitclaim deed allows the grantor to transfer any claim or ownership interest they have in the real estate property to the grantee without any guarantees or warranties. In a quitclaim deed, the current owner is transferring the property to the new owner without any promise that the title is good or free of liens. This option is often used when transferring property between spouses or in non-sale transactions.

  • Bargain and Sale Deed

    A bargain and sale deed certifies that the grantor has the title to the real estate property. However, there are no guarantees that the property is free of liens, claims, or encumbrances. This option is often used to transfer real estate property between family members and family trusts.

  • General Warranty

    A general warranty deed explicitly promises the grantee that the title is good and free of claims. It indicates that:

    • The grantor is the lawful owner of the real estate property
    • The property is absolutely free of legal claims or liens
    • In the event of any potential third-party claims, the grantor will defend the grantee

    A general warranty deed is often used when a property is sold.

  • Special Warranty

    A special warranty or limited warranty deed covers only the claims incurred by the grantor while he or she has the title. Claims that arise before the grantor owned the property will not be covered. This option is often used for the sale of a property acquired through foreclosure.


    Deed Transfers in Pennsylvania


    Transferring property in Pennsylvania involves the following process:

    • Determine the deed option you are using
    • Download and fill out the appropriate forms
    • Fill out the realty transfer tax forms
    • Sign the deed in front of a notary public
    • File the transfer with the office of the Recorder of Deeds

    An experienced attorney can help with the processes, saving you time and helping you achieve your desired results.

Work with an Experienced Attorney

Buying and selling real estate property in Pennsylvania involves a lot of complicated procedures. Drafting and reviewing contracts, reviewing title searches, disclosures, signing the deed, and dealing with closing statements can make the entire process even more complex and overwhelming. Fortunately, an experienced Pennsylvania real estate law attorney can offer the detailed guidance you need to help things go smoothly.


I am knowledgeable and experienced in the legal matters of real estate and deed transfers. As your legal counsel, I can help you understand the situation and determine the ideal deed transfer option that best fits your unique needs. I can also help you file your deed transfer and realty transfer tax forms, as well as settle any other property tax issues. I will work diligently to address your needs and concerns and ensure that the real estate ownership transfer is legal, seamless, and successful.

Deed Transfers Attorney

Serving King of Prussia, Pennsylvania

If you are transferring a real estate property in Pennsylvania, contact my firm — Law Office of David Downey — today to schedule a consultation. I can provide you with the experienced legal support need to make informed decisions.


My firm is proud to serve clients throughout the areas of King of Prussia, Delaware County, Philadelphia County, and Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.

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