🧾 Can You Sell a House With a Quitclaim Deed?
When a property is transferred using a quitclaim deed, it can raise a lot of questions for both the current owner and potential buyers — especially when it’s time to sell. If you’re holding a quitclaim deed and wondering if you can legally sell the house, here’s everything you need to know.
✅ What Is a Quitclaim Deed?
A quitclaim deed is a way to transfer ownership rights of a property without offering any guarantees about the title. Unlike a warranty deed — which certifies that the title is clear — a quitclaim simply says:
“Whatever interest I have in this property, I now give to you.”
Quitclaim deeds are commonly used:
- Between family members or spouses (e.g. during divorce)
- When adding or removing someone from a title
- In inheritance or estate planning situations
⚠️ Can You Sell With Just a Quitclaim Deed?
Yes — but there are conditions. Holding a quitclaim deed doesn’t automatically guarantee you have full, legal ownership that can be transferred to a buyer. To sell the property, you need:
- Clear title (no unknown liens, judgments, or disputes)
- Proper chain of title (no breaks in ownership history)
- Legal capacity to transfer ownership
A title company will run a search before closing. If anything is unclear or disputed, the sale could be delayed or fall through.
🧠 Common Issues That Delay Sales
- 🧾 Unresolved liens or debts
- ⚖️ Disputes from family members or heirs
- 🔍 Breaks in the chain of title
- 🏛️ Lack of proof that the grantor had authority to transfer
If the quitclaim deed was filed incorrectly, or you received it from someone who didn’t actually own the property, that could complicate your ability to sell.
🛠️ How to Make the Sale Smoother
To move forward with confidence:
- ✅ Have a title company review the deed and ownership history
- ✅ Resolve any legal issues, unpaid taxes, or liens in advance
- ✅ Be transparent with buyers about how you acquired the property
You can still sell a house with a quitclaim deed — but you may need to work with professionals who understand how to clear the title and navigate unusual legal cases.
💬 Related Blog
Trying to sell a home but don’t have full title in your name yet?
👉 What If the Title Isn’t in Your Name Yet?
🏡 Need Help Selling a Home With Title Questions?
At Sell My House Texas, we work with homeowners in Texas who’ve inherited homes, received property in a divorce, or were gifted a home through a quitclaim deed. We handle all the paperwork and help you sell fast — even when title isn’t simple.
📞 Call (214) 471-6720 today to speak with someone about your unique situation.
📩 Or request a free, no-pressure cash offer today!