Title vs Deed

There is often confusion between what a deed is and what title is. In this blog, we’ll explain the difference between a real estate deed and title to real estate. 

Origin of the Term Deed

Many of our terms and customs trace back to our nation’s British roots. Back then it was customary for the buyer and seller of property to gather all the town’s citizens on the property to witness the transfer of ownership. The seller would pick up a twig, rock, or a handful of dirt and hand it to the buyer this “doing the deed” of transferring property. This was called actual notice since everyone in the town actually saw the “deed” happen. 

In modern times, gathering the entire town on a subdivision’s lot isn’t practicable so we had to come up with a different way of providing the public notice that property was being transferred. In Florida, the attorney or title company handling the closing prepares a document called a “deed” which, once signed by the grantor, is recorded in the county records giving the public constructive notice that ownership has transferred.

what is a Deed?

A deed is a legal instrument that transfers legal title from one person (grantor) to another person (grantee). The document form of the deed replaces the twig, rock, or handful of dirt used in old England.

what is TITLE?

Title is the legal concept signifying ownership to the collection of rights called an estate. If you have title to a property, you own the property. 

Deed Moving and Storage Truck with Title Forklift

TITLE VS DEED

As we have discussed, the title is the legal concept signifying ownership. The deed is the legal instrument that gives notice to the public that property has transferred ownership. It is simply the “vehicle of conveyance” and not proof of ownership.

Facebook
LinkedIn
Email
Twitter
WhatsApp
Print

RELATED ARTICLES

Are you looking for more content on this topic? Check out these related articles exclusively on OneBlueRealEstateSchool.com:

multiple license vs group license in florida
Studying for the Florida Real Estate Exam
Kevin Johnson

Multiple License vs Group License

A common exam question you may be asked on the Florida real estate exam for sales associates, brokers, and instructors is to identify the differences

Read More »
Mutual Recognition vs Reciprocity
Studying for the Florida Real Estate Exam
Kevin Johnson

Mutual Recognition vs Reciprocity

While often used interchangeably, there is a big difference between mutual recognition and reciprocity. In this article, we will explain the key differences between these

Read More »

WRITTEN BY:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Facebook
LinkedIn
Email
Twitter
WhatsApp
Print
March Madness Save 30% off Sales Pre-Licenses Real Estate Classes

Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer from OneBlue Real Estate School! Get 30% off all instructor-led sales pre-license classes, both in-person and live-streamed. Register now to jumpstart your real estate career!

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS OFFER: This sale runs through 11:59 pm on April 4th, 2023; however, we reserve the right to end the sale early at our sole discretion. Discount must be applied at the time of registration and is not combinable with other offers or discounts. This discount is valid only on instructor-led pre-license courses and for new students. It also does not apply to on-demand courses or bundle upgrades. All discounted and bundled sales are final. No refunds, no transfers. By clicking above, you consent to receive email and SMS messages from OneBlue Real Estate School LLC. See the School Policies page on our website for additional terms and conditions.