Transfer Michigan Real Estate with Full Title Protection and Guarantees

Looking for a Michigan warranty deed form? Our downloadable Michigan warranty deed template provides the strongest protection for property buyers by guaranteeing clear title and protecting against all past, present, and future title defects—perfect for real estate sales, refinancing, and any transaction where the buyer needs maximum title protection.

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What is a Michigan Warranty Deed?

A Michigan warranty deed is a legal document used to transfer real estate with the grantor (seller) providing the strongest possible guarantee of clear title. Unlike quitclaim deeds, a warranty deed in Michigan includes covenants that protect the grantee (buyer) against all title defects, liens, and encumbrances, whether they arose before or during the grantor's ownership. This makes it the preferred deed type for real estate sales throughout Michigan.

Why Choose Our Michigan Warranty Deed Template?

✔ Instant Download – Get immediate access to your Michigan warranty deed PDF
✔ Multiple Formats – Available as editable MS Word, fillable PDF, and Google Doc
✔ Easy to Use – Includes step-by-step instructions for completing your warranty deed
✔ Legally Compliant – Formatted to meet Michigan Compiled Laws § 565.151 requirements
✔ Affordable – Just $9.99 for complete access to all formats

What's Included in Your Purchase:

• Michigan warranty deed form (Word, PDF, and Google Doc formats)

• Editable Michigan warranty deed template you can customize

• Fillable Michigan warranty deed PDF for easy completion

• Step-by-step instructions for proper execution

• Recording guidelines for Michigan counties

• Information on Michigan's covenant requirements

• Access to our organized course platform with all templates

Common Uses for Michigan Warranty Deeds:

Real Estate Sales – Standard deed for property sales with full buyer protection

Mortgage Refinancing – Lenders typically require warranty deeds for loan transactions

Arms-Length Transactions – Any sale between unrelated parties

Commercial Sales – Business and commercial property transfers

Investment Property Sales – Transfer of rental and income properties

New Construction Sales – Builders transferring newly constructed homes

Maximum Buyer Protection – When the buyer needs strongest title guarantees

Lender Requirements – Most mortgage lenders require warranty deeds

Benefits of Using Our Michigan Warranty Deed Form:

Maximum Protection – Provides strongest title guarantees available under Michigan law

Buyer Confidence – Assures buyer of clear, marketable title

Lender Approved – Meets requirements of mortgage lenders and title companies

Six Covenants – Includes all required covenants of title under Michigan law

Professional Quality – Legally compliant with Michigan recording requirements

Flexible Formats – Choose from Word, PDF, or Google Docs

Cost-Effective – Much cheaper than attorney preparation at just $9.99

Instant Access – Download and use immediately—no waiting

How Does a Michigan Warranty Deed Work?

1. Complete the Form – Fill out our Michigan warranty deed template with property and party information

2. Sign Before a Notary – The grantor(s) must sign in the presence of a notary public

3. Record the Deed – File with the Register of Deeds in the county where the property is located

4. Title Transfers – Ownership transfers with full warranty protection

5. Buyer Protected – Buyer receives maximum protection against title defects

Michigan Warranty Deed Requirements:

• Must include the grantor's and grantee's full legal names and addresses

• Must contain the complete legal property description

• Must include the property's parcel identification number

• Must state the consideration (actual amount paid)

• Must include all six covenants of title

• Must be signed by the grantor(s) in front of a notary public

• Must be notarized with proper acknowledgment

• Must be recorded with the Register of Deeds where property is located

• Must comply with Michigan's formatting and margin requirements

• Must include drafted by/prepared by statement

• Must include property address (if applicable)

• Subject to Michigan State Real Estate Transfer Tax ($3.75 per $500)

• May require County Transfer Tax in some Michigan counties

Understanding Michigan's Six Covenants of Title

A Michigan warranty deed includes six important covenants (promises) from the grantor to the grantee:

Present Covenants (at time of transfer):

1. Covenant of Seisin – Grantor owns the property and has right to convey it

2. Covenant of Right to Convey – Grantor has legal authority to transfer the property

3. Covenant Against Encumbrances – No liens, easements, or encumbrances except those stated

Future Covenants (ongoing protection):

4. Covenant of Warranty – Grantor will defend title against all lawful claims

5. Covenant of Quiet Enjoyment – Grantee's possession won't be disturbed by valid claims

6. Covenant of Further Assurances – Grantor will take necessary steps to perfect title

These covenants provide maximum protection for buyers and are what distinguish warranty deeds from other deed types.

Michigan Warranty Deed vs. Other Deed Types

Warranty Deed (This Form):

• Provides maximum title protection

• Includes all six covenants of title

• Grantor liable for all title defects

• Best for property sales

• Required by most lenders

• Protects against past and future claims

• Highest level of buyer protection

Special Warranty Deed:

• Warrants title only during grantor's ownership

• Limited protection period

• Doesn't cover pre-existing defects

• Sometimes used in commercial transactions

• Less protection than general warranty deed

Quitclaim Deed:

• No warranties or guarantees

• Transfers whatever interest grantor has

• No title protection

• Best for transfers between trusted parties

• Not suitable for sales to strangers

• Lowest level of protection

Lady Bird Deed (Enhanced Life Estate):

• Retains powers during lifetime

• Avoids probate

• Estate planning tool

• Not used for sales

• Different purpose than warranty deed

Who Should Use a Michigan Warranty Deed?

Our Michigan warranty deed template is ideal for:

• Property sellers in arms-length transactions

• Real estate agents and brokers

• Title companies and closing agents

• Homebuilders selling new construction

• Real estate investors selling properties

• Anyone selling property to unrelated buyers

• Lenders requiring warranty deed protection

• Buyers needing maximum title protection

Download Your Michigan Warranty Deed Template Today

Get instant access to your Michigan warranty deed form download for just $9.99. Available in editable Word format, fillable PDF, and Google Docs for maximum convenience.

Get Instant Access - $9.99

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a warranty deed in Michigan?
A: A Michigan warranty deed is a legal document that transfers property with the grantor providing complete guarantees of clear title and protection against all title defects.

Q: What's the difference between a warranty deed and quitclaim deed in Michigan?
A: A warranty deed includes six covenants guaranteeing clear title and protecting the buyer. A quitclaim deed provides no guarantees—it simply transfers whatever interest the grantor has. Warranty deeds are standard for sales; quitclaim deeds are for transfers between trusted parties.

Q: Do I need an attorney to prepare a Michigan warranty deed?
A: No, you don't legally need an attorney. Our downloadable Michigan warranty deed template includes complete instructions for straightforward transfers.

Q: How much does it cost to file a Michigan warranty deed?
A: Recording fees vary by county, typically $30-$50. Additionally, Michigan charges a State Real Estate Transfer Tax of $3.75 per $500 of property value (0.75%), and some counties charge additional county transfer taxes.

Q: Does a Michigan warranty deed need to be notarized?
A: Yes, the grantor's signature must be notarized for the deed to be valid and recordable in Michigan.

Q: Can I use a warranty deed for a gift in Michigan?
A: While you can, warranty deeds are typically used for sales. For gifts between family members, a quitclaim deed is often more appropriate since no money is changing hands and the parties trust each other.

Q: What is Michigan's transfer tax rate?
A: Michigan charges a state transfer tax of $3.75 per $500 of the property's value or consideration paid (0.75%). Some counties also charge additional county transfer taxes (typically $0.55 per $500 in participating counties).

Q: Will a warranty deed affect my mortgage in Michigan?
A: If you're selling the property, the mortgage will need to be paid off at closing. If there's an existing mortgage, transferring the property may trigger the due-on-sale clause, requiring full payment.

Q: Is title insurance still needed with a warranty deed?
A: Yes! Even with a warranty deed's strong guarantees, title insurance is highly recommended. It provides additional protection and is typically required by mortgage lenders.

Q: What happens if title defects are discovered after using a warranty deed?
A: The grantor is legally liable for any title defects and must defend the title or compensate the grantee for losses—this is why warranty deeds provide maximum buyer protection.

Multiple Format Options

Editable Word Document – Fully customizable Michigan warranty deed template in MS Word format

Fillable PDF – Complete your Michigan warranty deed PDF digitally with ease

Google Docs – Cloud-based access to edit your Michigan warranty deed form from anywhere

Michigan-Specific Tax Considerations

State Real Estate Transfer Tax:

• Rate: $3.75 per $500 of value (0.75%)

• Applies to all property transfers in Michigan

• Calculated on sale price or property value

• Paid when deed is recorded

• Required Statement L-4029 (Property Transfer Affidavit)

County Transfer Tax:

• Some Michigan counties charge additional transfer tax

• Typically $0.55 per $500 where applicable

• Not all counties participate

• Check with your county Register of Deeds

Transfer Tax Examples:

$200,000 Property:

• State Transfer Tax: $1,500

• County Transfer Tax: $220 (if applicable)

• Recording Fee: ~$30-$50

• Total: ~$1,750-$1,770

$350,000 Property:

• State Transfer Tax: $2,625

• County Transfer Tax: $385 (if applicable)

• Recording Fee: ~$30-$50

• Total: ~$3,040-$3,060

Exemptions:

• Gifts between family members (may be exempt)

• Transfers to/from governmental entities

• Certain mortgage-related transfers

• Consult tax professional for specific exemptions

Note: Property taxes continue, and buyers should verify millage rates and special assessments

💡 Need Professional Help?

If you'd prefer expert assistance with your warranty deed preparation, you can upgrade to our complete deed preparation service at any time—and we'll credit back the full $9.99 cost of this template toward your service fee.

Serving All Michigan Counties

Our Michigan warranty deed form is valid in all 83 Michigan counties, including:

Southeast Michigan:

• Wayne County (Detroit)

• Oakland County (Pontiac)

• Macomb County (Mount Clemens)

• Washtenaw County (Ann Arbor)

• Monroe County (Monroe)

• Livingston County (Howell)

• St. Clair County (Port Huron)

• Lenawee County (Adrian)

West Michigan:

• Kent County (Grand Rapids)

• Ottawa County (Grand Haven)

• Muskegon County (Muskegon)

• Allegan County (Allegan)

• Barry County (Hastings)

Mid-Michigan:

• Ingham County (Lansing)

• Eaton County (Charlotte)

• Clinton County (St. Johns)

• Genesee County (Flint)

• Saginaw County (Saginaw)

• Bay County (Bay City)

Northern Michigan:

• Grand Traverse County (Traverse City)

• Leelanau County (Leland)

• Antrim County (Bellaire)

• Emmet County (Petoskey)

• Cheboygan County (Cheboygan)

Upper Peninsula:

• Marquette County (Marquette)

• Houghton County (Houghton)

• Delta County (Escanaba)

• Chippewa County (Sault Ste. Marie)

And all other Michigan counties

Step-by-Step Process Included

Our comprehensive instructions guide you through:

1. Gathering required property information

2. Obtaining the legal description and parcel identification number

3. Understanding Michigan's six covenants of title

4. Determining the consideration amount

5. Completing the warranty deed form

6. Understanding Michigan property ownership types

7. Properly executing the document

8. Understanding notarization requirements

9. Preparing Property Transfer Affidavit (Form L-4029)

10. Calculating transfer taxes

11. Filing with your Register of Deeds

12. Understanding recording fees and transfer taxes

13. Obtaining certified copies for your records

Common Michigan Warranty Deed Scenarios

Home Sale

• Most common use of warranty deeds

• Full title protection for buyer

• Required by mortgage lenders

• Standard for residential transactions

• Maximum buyer confidence

Investment Property Sale

• Selling rental properties

• Commercial building transfers

• Multi-family property sales

• Full warranty protection

• Professional transactions

New Construction Sale

• Builders selling completed homes

• Warranty deed from builder to buyer

• Title insurance required

• Lender-approved transfers

• Clean title delivery

Refinancing

• Lender may require new warranty deed

• Clear title for new loan

• Replace prior deed

• Secure lender position

• Update ownership records

Arms-Length Transaction

• Any sale between unrelated parties

• Maximum protection important

• Clear title essential

• Professional documentation

• Lender requirements met

Commercial Real Estate

• Office buildings

• Retail spaces

• Industrial properties

• Mixed-use developments

• Investment properties

What Makes Our Michigan Warranty Deed Template Different?

✓ Michigan-Specific – Complies with all Michigan Compiled Laws § 565.151 requirements
✓ All Six Covenants – Includes complete covenant language required by Michigan law
✓ Proper Formatting – Meets Michigan's recording standards
✓ Up-to-Date – Reflects current Michigan property law
✓ Professionally Drafted – Created by legal document preparation experts
✓ Easy to Customize – Clear blanks for your specific information
✓ Transfer Tax Guidance – Instructions for calculating Michigan transfer taxes
✓ L-4029 Instructions – Guidance on Property Transfer Affidavit requirements
✓ Multiple Formats – Work in the format that suits you best
✓ Instant Access – Download immediately after purchase

Michigan Recording Requirements

To properly record your Michigan warranty deed, you'll need:

1. Completed and signed warranty deed

2. Notarized acknowledgment

3. Property Transfer Affidavit (Form L-4029)

4. State Real Estate Transfer Tax payment ($3.75 per $500)

5. County Transfer Tax payment (if applicable)

6. Recording fee payment (varies by county, typically $30-$50)

7. Return address for recorded deed

8. Proper formatting with required margins

9. Legal description and parcel identification number

10. Property address

11. Drafted by/prepared by statement

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Incomplete legal description – Must match exactly from prior deed
❌ Missing parcel identification number – Required in Michigan
❌ Wrong covenant language – Must include all six covenants properly
❌ Improper notarization – Required for recording
❌ Missing Form L-4029 – Property Transfer Affidavit required
❌ Incorrect transfer tax calculation – Must pay $3.75 per $500
❌ Using wrong Register of Deeds office – Must record in county where property located
❌ Not paying off existing mortgage – Seller must clear liens
❌ Missing drafted by statement – Required on deed
❌ Forgetting property address – Should be included for identification

Our Michigan warranty deed template includes detailed instructions to help you avoid these common pitfalls.

Understanding Michigan Property Ownership Types

Sole Ownership – Single person owns entire interest

Tenants by the Entirety – Married couples with right of survivorship (Michigan's default for married couples)

Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship – Co-owners with automatic survivorship; property passes to surviving owner(s)

Tenants in Common – Co-owners with separate shares; no automatic survivorship; shares pass through estate

Trust Ownership – Property held in trust

Our template allows you to specify the ownership type when transferring property.

Detroit Metro Area

Wayne County (Detroit):

• Largest population in Michigan

• Active real estate market

• Urban and suburban transfers

• Commercial transactions

• Warranty deeds standard for all sales

Oakland County (Pontiac/Bloomfield):

• Affluent suburbs

• High property values

• Strong real estate activity

• Professional transactions

• Warranty deed expectations

Macomb County (Sterling Heights/Clinton Township):

• Northern suburbs

• Family neighborhoods

• Growing market

• Residential sales

• Title protection important

Washtenaw County (Ann Arbor):

• University town

• Strong housing market

• Investment properties

• Professional buyers

• Warranty deeds preferred

West Michigan

Kent County (Grand Rapids):

• Second largest city

• Growing economy

• Active real estate market

• Commercial and residential

• Warranty deeds standard

Ottawa County (Holland/Grand Haven):

• Lake Michigan access

• Resort properties

• Family homes

• Growing market

• Title protection valued

Muskegon County (Muskegon):

• Lake Michigan port

• Affordable housing

• Beach properties

• Warranty deeds common

• Growing market

Mid-Michigan

Ingham County (Lansing):

• State capital

• Government center

• University community

• Stable market

• Professional standards

Genesee County (Flint):

• Central Michigan hub

• Diverse properties

• Growing recovery

• Warranty protection important

• Title issues addressed

Northern Michigan and Up North

Grand Traverse County (Traverse City):

• Popular destination

• Vacation properties

• Wine country

• High property values

• Warranty deeds standard

Leelanau County:

• Premium properties

• Waterfront homes

• Vacation estates

• High-end market

• Maximum protection expected

Emmet County (Petoskey):

• Resort community

• Lake Michigan access

• Seasonal properties

• Strong market

• Title protection critical

Upper Peninsula

Marquette County (Marquette):

• U.P.'s largest city

• University town

• Lake Superior access

• Diverse properties

• Warranty deeds standard

Houghton County:

• Michigan Tech

• Historic mining area

• Affordable properties

• Growing market

• Title protection important

When to Use a Warranty Deed vs. Quitclaim Deed in Michigan

Use a WARRANTY DEED when:

• Selling property to a stranger or unrelated party

• Buyer is obtaining mortgage financing

• Title company or lender requires it

• Buyer needs maximum protection

• In any arms-length transaction

• Selling investment or commercial property

• Want to guarantee clear title

• Standard real estate sale

Use a QUITCLAIM DEED when:

• Transferring property between family members

• Adding/removing spouse after marriage/divorce

• Transferring to/from a trust

• Correcting title errors

• Both parties know and trust each other

• No money is changing hands (gifts)

• Quick transfer without warranties needed

Additional Michigan Real Estate Forms Available

Need other Michigan property forms? We also offer:

• Michigan Quitclaim Deeds – For family transfers and non-sale situations

• Michigan Lady Bird Deeds – For estate planning and probate avoidance

• Michigan Transfer on Death Deeds – Not currently available in Michigan (use Lady Bird Deed instead)

• Michigan Special Warranty Deeds – Limited warranty protection

Ready to Transfer Your Michigan Property with Maximum Protection?

Download your Michigan warranty deed form today and complete your property transfer with the strongest title guarantees available under Michigan law. For just $9.99, you'll have everything you need to prepare a professional Michigan warranty deed—providing maximum buyer protection and meeting all lender requirements!

Get Instant Access - $9.99

Perfect for All Michigan Property Types

Whether you're transferring:

• Detroit metro area properties (Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw)

• Grand Rapids and West Michigan homes

• Lansing and Mid-Michigan properties

• Traverse City and Northern Michigan vacation homes

• Upper Peninsula properties

• Lake Michigan waterfront homes

• Lake Huron cottages

• Investment and rental properties

• Commercial buildings

• New construction homes

• Residential properties throughout Michigan

Our Michigan warranty deed template provides the professional documentation and maximum title protection needed for successful property transfers throughout the Great Lakes State.

Download Your Michigan Warranty Deed Template Now - $9.99

Free Michigan Warranty Deed Information

While we offer our comprehensive Michigan warranty deed template for just $9.99, we provide this valuable information about Michigan warranty deeds for free to help you understand this important legal document:

Free Resources Included on This Page:

• How Michigan warranty deeds work

• Six covenants of title explained

• When to use warranty vs. quitclaim deeds

• Michigan transfer tax calculations

• Recording requirements

• Property Transfer Affidavit (L-4029) information

• County-specific considerations

What You Get for $9.99:

• Professionally drafted Michigan warranty deed form

• Multiple formats (Word, PDF, Google Docs)

• Complete step-by-step instructions

• All six covenants properly included

• Recording guidelines for all Michigan counties

• Transfer tax calculation worksheets

• Form L-4029 instructions

• Organized course platform access

• Instant download

This small investment ensures your Michigan property transfer includes maximum buyer protection and meets all legal requirements!

📄 MI Quitclaim Deed Forms

📋 Michigan Ladybird Deed Forms

📚 Get Our Deed Prep Tutorial Course $37

📞 Mobile Notary Services: Call 1-877-540-6104 for professional notarization at your location

Don't leave your property transfer to chance. Use professional forms, proper execution, and expert support to ensure your quitclaim deed accomplishes your goals without complications.

This article provides general information about Michigan quitclaim deeds and should not be considered legal advice. Property transfers involve complex legal and tax implications. Consult with qualified Michigan attorneys and tax professionals to discuss your specific situation and needs.