How to Add a Name to a Property Deed

In order to prevent disputes over property, and prevent legal tussles after the death of an individual who leaves a paid for property, it is essential to have a property deed. This is a legal document which contains the rights to a property (such as who has title to that land) and interest in that property, all written down clearly. All sales and purchases of real estate are generally registered with local property record offices, and prospective buyers can research the title of a certain property by viewing these deeds.

Deeds are usually written out in one person’s name, who has title to the property, but complications might arise if that person marries, or happens to team up with a business partner. In this case, if the original title holder wishes, another name can be added to the deed. Most legal documents are amended if a change is required – however, in the case of a deed, the addition of a name requires a new deed to be executed and filed.

To begin the process, you need to contact your mortgage lender or company to obtain written consent from them, if there is a mortgage on the property. Go through your mortgage documents with care, and consult your mortgage lender before making a move, because some mortgages contain acceleration clauses – in these cases, the entire amount becomes due if the title to the property is transferred by the title holder, or when another name is added to the deed.

Once you have sorted this issue out with your mortgage lender or company, you may proceed to the next step – visit the local property records office in the area where the property is located, to get a new deed form. When looking to add in a name, a quitclaim deed form is the one that is most widely used.

Finally, execute the deed. Begin by writing your name, as the grantor, and then move on to write “does hereby grant and quitclaim title to the property described below to [Your name and the name you are adding to the deed]” – keep in mind that this is for when you are using a quitclaim deed. Fill in the rest of the deed form, and then sign it with your name. Once it has been filled and signed, you can file it with the property records office.