Deeds document the ownership of a piece of property. Over time, property can be bought and sold many times. When a deed is executed as a sales contract, it is filed on record with the proper county. The most current deed filed should state the names of the current owners of the property. Names can be added to or removed from a deed by the property owners at any time using a quitclaim deed.
Research the county records for the most recent deed recorded on the property. This can be done at the county clerk, or recorder of deeds, office. Some counties also provide an online database with deed information.
Contact an attorney to prepare a quitclaim deed. The deed should list the grantors as the current owners, and the grantees as everyone who is to remain on the deed.
Review the completed quitclaim deed for accuracy. Make sure all names and addresses are spelled correctly. Double-check that the name to be removed from the deed does not appear as a grantee.
Sign the deed in the presence of a notary public. Generally, only the grantors sign the deed. In some instances, the grantees will need to sign. Your attorney can advise you about this situation.
Submit the deed to the county clerk or register of deeds to be recorded. Once the deed is filed, obtain a certified copy for your personal records.
