What Is a Grantee in Real Estate?

A grantee is the person or entity who receives ownership of real estate from a grantor through a legally executed deed.

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💡 What Does a Grantee Do?

The grantee becomes the legal new owner of the property once the deed is properly executed and delivered by the grantor. The grantee’s rights depend on the type of deed used in the transfer.

  • ✔ Receives ownership rights in the property
  • ✔ Accepts the deed from the grantor
  • ✔ Gains the rights defined by the deed type
  • ✔ Responsible for recording the deed (in most states)
  • ✔ Protected by warranties in a warranty deed

See also: Who Is the Grantor?

📌 Who Can Be a Grantee?

A grantee can be any individual or legal entity legally capable of holding real estate title. Common examples include:

  • Homebuyers
  • Heirs receiving property
  • Investors or LLCs
  • Trust beneficiaries
  • Spouses or family members
  • Businesses purchasing real estate

For title history: Chain of Title

🔎 Grantee Rights in a Real Estate Transfer

A grantee’s legal rights depend heavily on the type of deed used to transfer ownership:

  • General Warranty Deed: Maximum protection from title issues
  • Special Warranty Deed: Limited protection (only grantor’s period)
  • Quitclaim Deed: No warranties — buyer assumes all risk
  • Bargain and Sale Deed: Common in foreclosures; few protections

Learn more: What Is a Deed?

❗ FSBO Warning: Grantees Should Verify Clean Title

Grantees must confirm the property’s title is clear before accepting the transfer. If a deed transfers ownership but the title has unresolved problems, the grantee may inherit costly issues.

  • Previous liens or judgments
  • Ownership disputes
  • Unreleased mortgages
  • Boundary or easement problems

Protect yourself: What Is Title Insurance?

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