Iowa Quitclaim Deed

Save Hundreds vs Attorney Fees

Professional Legal Document – Only $9.99

(Typical legal consultation: $79–$149)

  • Professional MS Word formatting
  • Fully editable & reusable
  • Attorney-reviewed templates
  • Lifetime updates included
  • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
GET INSTANT ACCESS Immediate download available
Accepted payment methods: Visa, MasterCard, Amex, PayPal, Discover

What Is an Iowa Quitclaim Deed?

An Iowa quitclaim deed is a legal document used to transfer whatever ownership interest a person (the grantor) currently holds in a property to another party (the grantee), without providing any guarantees about the title's history. It makes no promises that the property is free of liens, mortgages, or other encumbrances. The grantee accepts the property entirely "as is" regarding the title status.

When to Use a Quitclaim Deed in Iowa

  • Transferring property between close family members, such as from parents to children.
  • Adding or removing a spouse's name from the property title following marriage or divorce.
  • Moving personal real estate into a living trust or a closely held LLC.
  • Clearing up a minor title defect or ambiguity discovered in the public records.

Iowa Requirements for Quitclaim Deeds

  • Signing: The grantor(s) must sign the deed.
  • Notarization: The grantor's signature must be acknowledged by a notary public.
  • Witnesses: 0 witnesses are required by Iowa law.
  • Recording: The deed must be filed with the County Recorder in the county or jurisdiction where the land is located.
  • Transfer Tax / Recording Fees: $1.60 per $1,000 (state deed tax). Transfer tax applies to all conveyances.
  • Legal Description: A complete and accurate legal description of the property is mandatory.

Quitclaim Deed vs Other Deeds in Iowa

The primary difference is the level of title protection. An Iowa warranty deed or grant deed includes promises from the seller that the title is clear and defendable. A quitclaim deed provides zero warranties, leaving the new owner responsible for any historical title issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Iowa real estate transfer tax on quitclaim deeds?

Iowa charges a real estate transfer tax of $1.60 per $1,000 of the property's sale price or value (0.16%). The tax is collected by the county recorder at the time of filing. For quitclaim deeds with no monetary consideration, the tax may be calculated based on the property's fair market value, though certain exempt transfers (such as between spouses or to a trust) may not owe the tax.

Does Iowa have special requirements for farm property quitclaim deeds?

Iowa has specific rules for agricultural land transfers. Under Iowa Code § 558A, sellers of farm property must provide a disclosure statement to the buyer before closing. Additionally, certain restrictions may apply to transfers of farmland, including right-of-first-refusal provisions for beginning farmers. If you are transferring agricultural land via quitclaim deed, consult with an attorney familiar with Iowa's farm transfer laws.

Where do I record an Iowa quitclaim deed?

You must take the original, notarized deed to the County Recorder in the jurisdiction where the property is physically located and pay the required recording fee.

Does a quitclaim deed transfer my mortgage in Iowa?

No, a deed only transfers the property title. It does not eliminate your financial obligation to pay an existing mortgage. You remain responsible for the loan unless the lender explicitly agrees to a refinance or assumption.

Are there transfer taxes on an Iowa quitclaim deed?

$1.60 per $1,000 (state deed tax). Additional local recording fees also apply when filing the deed.

Can I write my own quitclaim deed in Iowa?

Yes, you can draft your own deed as long as it strictly adheres to Iowa's legal requirements for formatting, legal description, and notarization.