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An District of Columbia warranty deed is a legal instrument that transfers real estate ownership while providing the highest level of protection to the buyer. The seller (grantor) legally guarantees that they hold clear title, have the right to convey it, and that the property is free of undisclosed liens. If a title defect from the property's history is discovered later, the buyer can hold the seller liable.
An District of Columbia warranty deed holds the seller financially responsible for any past title defects, providing the buyer with maximum protection. In contrast, a quitclaim deed offers zero protection, as the seller only transfers their current interest without any guarantees.
In D.C., a warranty deed provides full title guarantees — the seller promises the title is clean and agrees to defend the buyer against any future claims. A quitclaim deed transfers only whatever interest the seller currently holds, with no guarantees. For arms-length property sales in D.C., warranty deeds are standard, and most lenders will not accept a quitclaim deed for financed purchases.
D.C. applies tiered recording taxes. For properties valued over $2 million, the rate is 1.45%, and for properties over $5 million, it rises to 2.9%. These higher rates function similarly to a "mansion tax" and apply to all deed types, including warranty deeds, based on the property's consideration or fair market value.
You must take the original, notarized deed to the Recorder of Deeds in the jurisdiction where the property is physically located and pay the required recording fee.
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.
1.1-2.9% (deed recording tax). Additional local recording fees also apply when filing the deed.
Yes, you can draft your own deed as long as it strictly adheres to District of Columbia's legal requirements for formatting, legal description, and notarization.
