What Is a Grantor in Real Estate?

A grantor is the person or entity that transfers ownership of real estate to another party, known as the grantee, through a legally executed deed.

← Back to “What Is… in Real Estate?” Glossary

💡 What Does a Grantor Do?

The grantor is responsible for legally conveying ownership rights in real estate. To do this, the grantor signs a deed that specifies the type of ownership being transferred and any warranties or guarantees included.

  • ✔ Transfers ownership (full or partial)
  • ✔ Signs and executes the deed
  • ✔ Provides legal authority for the transfer
  • ✔ May offer title warranties depending on deed type
  • ✔ Ensures the deed is properly delivered and recorded

Related: What Is a Deed?

📌 Types of Grantors

A grantor can be an individual, group, or legal entity. Common examples include:

  • Homeowners selling property
  • Heirs transferring inherited property
  • Banks or lenders (foreclosure sales)
  • LLCs and corporations
  • Trustees transferring property from a trust
  • Government agencies (tax deed or auction sales)

For the receiving side of the transaction, see: Who Is the Grantee?

🔎 Grantor Responsibilities in a Real Estate Transfer

The grantor has several key legal responsibilities in transferring ownership:

  • Executing the deed with accurate legal details
  • Ensuring clear ownership (if using a warranty deed)
  • Disclosing known defects or issues as required by state law
  • Delivering the deed to the grantee
  • Cooperating with title and closing agents

Learn more about clearing ownership issues: Cloud on Title • Quiet Title Action

❗ FSBO Warning: Grantor Errors Can Delay Closing

If the grantor makes mistakes on the deed—such as misspelling names, using the wrong legal description, or failing to sign correctly—the title company may reject the document and delay closing.

  • Incorrect names or missing signatures
  • Wrong legal description
  • Unreleased liens
  • Ownership disputes

Learn how title insurance protects the transfer: What Is Title Insurance?

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