Which type of deed offers the most protection to the grantee?

The general warranty deed offers the most protection to the grantee because it provides several guarantees regarding the title to the property. When a seller uses a general warranty deed, they are affirming that they hold clear title to the property and have the right to transfer it. This type of deed includes promises that the property is free from any encumbrances, that the seller will defend the title against any claims, and that the seller will compensate the grantee for any loss if the title is found to be defective due to issues arising before the seller's ownership.

This level of warranty ensures that the grantee can feel secure in their ownership, knowing that the seller is accountable for the title's integrity. The grantee receives the most expansive form of protection because the guarantees cover the entire history of the property, which is not the case with other types of deeds, such as quitclaim deeds or special warranty deeds. A quitclaim deed offers no warranties of title at all, simply transferring whatever interest the grantor may have, while a special warranty deed provides limited protections only for the period during which the grantor owned the property. A grant deed also offers some protection but does not go as far as the general warranty deed in ensuring the absence of encumbrances