Looking for a Washington warranty deed form? Our downloadable Washington warranty deed template provides the strongest protection for property buyers by guaranteeing clear title and protecting against all past, present, and future title defectsโperfect for real estate sales, refinancing, and any transaction where the buyer needs maximum title protection.
Download Your Washington Warranty Deed Template Now - $9.99
A Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington State.
โ Instant Download โ Get immediate access to your Washington warranty deed PDF
โ Multiple Formats โ Available as editable MS Word, fillable PDF, and Google Doc
โ Easy to Use โ Includes step-by-step instructions for completing your warranty deed
โ Legally Compliant โ Formatted to meet Washington Revised Code ยง 64.04 requirements
โ Affordable โ Just $9.99 for complete access to all formats
Washington warranty deed form (Word, PDF, and Google Doc formats)
Editable Washington warranty deed template you can customize
Fillable Washington warranty deed PDF for easy completion
Step-by-step instructions for proper execution
Recording guidelines for Washington counties
Information on Washington's covenant requirements
Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) calculation guidance
Access to our organized course platform with all templates
Real Estate Sales โ Standard deed for property sales with full buyer protection
Mortgage Refinancing โ Lenders typically require warranty deeds for loan transactions
Arms-Length Transactions โ Any sale between unrelated parties
Commercial Sales โ Business and commercial property transfers
Investment Property Sales โ Transfer of rental and income properties
New Construction Sales โ Builders transferring newly constructed homes
Maximum Buyer Protection โ When the buyer needs strongest title guarantees
Lender Requirements โ Most mortgage lenders require warranty deeds
Maximum Protection โ Provides strongest title guarantees available under Washington law
Buyer Confidence โ Assures buyer of clear, marketable title
Lender Approved โ Meets requirements of mortgage lenders and title companies
Six Covenants โ Includes all required covenants of title under Washington law
Professional Quality โ Legally compliant with Washington recording requirements
Flexible Formats โ Choose from Word, PDF, or Google Docs
Cost-Effective โ Much cheaper than attorney preparation at just $9.99
Instant Access โ Download and use immediatelyโno waiting
Complete the Form โ Fill out our Washington warranty deed template with property and party information
Sign Before a Notary โ The grantor(s) must sign in the presence of a notary public
Record the Deed โ File with the County Auditor or County Recorder in the county where the property is located
Title Transfers โ Ownership transfers with full warranty protection
Buyer Protected โ Buyer receives maximum protection against title defects
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 number (tax lot 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 County Auditor where property is located
Must comply with Washington's formatting and margin requirements (3" top margin on first page)
Must include return address
Must include property address
Subject to Washington Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) - state and local
Must include completed Real Estate Excise Tax Affidavit
A Washington warranty deed includes six important covenants (promises) from the grantor to the grantee:
Present Covenants (at time of transfer):
Covenant of Seisin โ Grantor owns the property and has right to convey it
Covenant of Right to Convey โ Grantor has legal authority to transfer the property
Covenant Against Encumbrances โ No liens, easements, or encumbrances except those stated
Future Covenants (ongoing protection):
Covenant of Warranty โ Grantor will defend title against all lawful claims
Covenant of Quiet Enjoyment โ Grantee's possession won't be disturbed by valid claims
Covenant of Further Assurances โ 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.
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
Transfer on Death Deed:
Avoids probate
Transfers property at death
Estate planning tool
Not used for sales
Different purpose than warranty deed
Our Washington 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
Get instant access to your Washington warranty deed form download for just $9.99. Available in editable Word format, fillable PDF, and Google Docs for maximum convenience.
Q: What is a warranty deed in Washington?
A: A Washington 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 Washington?
A: A warranty deed includes six covenants guaranteeing clear title and protecting the buyer. A quitclaim deed provides no guaranteesโit simply transfers whatever interest the grantor has. Warranty deeds are standard for sales; quitclaim deeds are for transfers between trusted parties. Compare Washington deed types here.
Q: Do I need an attorney to prepare a Washington warranty deed?
A: No, you don't legally need an attorney. Our downloadable Washington warranty deed template includes complete instructions for straightforward transfers.
Q: How much does it cost to file a Washington warranty deed?
A: Recording fees vary by county, typically $200-$250. Additionally, Washington charges a Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) with combined state and local rates typically ranging from 1.78% to 3.0% of the sale price, depending on location and property value.
Q: Does a Washington warranty deed need to be notarized?
A: Yes, the grantor's signature must be notarized for the deed to be valid and recordable in Washington.
Q: Can I use a warranty deed for a gift in Washington?
A: While you can, warranty deeds are typically used for sales. For gifts between family members, a Washington quitclaim deed is often more appropriate. Note that even gifts may be subject to REET unless a specific exemption applies.
Q: What is Washington's Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) rate?
A: Washington charges a state REET that varies by sale price (1.1% to 3.0% for state portion), plus local REET (typically 0.25% to 0.5%). Combined rates often total 1.78% to 3.0% depending on location. Seattle and King County have the highest rates in the state.
Q: Will a warranty deed affect my mortgage in Washington?
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 lossesโthis is why warranty deeds provide maximum buyer protection.
Editable Word Document โ Fully customizable Washington warranty deed template in MS Word format
Fillable PDF โ Complete your Washington warranty deed PDF digitally with ease
Google Docs โ Cloud-based access to edit your Washington warranty deed form from anywhere
State Real Estate Excise Tax (REET):
Washington has a progressive state REET structure based on sale price:
State REET Rates (as of 2024):
$0 - $500,000: 1.1%
$500,001 - $1,500,000: 1.28%
$1,500,001 - $3,000,000: 2.75%
Over $3,000,000: 3.0%
Local REET:
Counties and cities may impose additional REET
Typically 0.25% to 0.5% local REET
King County: 0.5% county REET
Seattle: Additional 0.5% city REET
Total combined rates vary significantly by location
Recording Fees:
Varies by county
Typically $200-$250 for deed recording
Additional fees for multiple pages
REET affidavit filing
Combined REET Examples by Location:
$400,000 Property:
Most Washington Counties:
State REET: $4,400 (1.1%)
Local REET: $1,000 (0.25% typical)
Recording Fee: ~$200-$250
Total: ~$5,600-$5,650
Seattle/King County:
State REET: $4,400 (1.1%)
King County REET: $2,000 (0.5%)
Seattle REET: $2,000 (0.5%)
Recording Fee: ~$200-$250
Total: ~$8,600-$8,650
$750,000 Property:
Most Washington Counties:
State REET: $9,600 (1.28%)
Local REET: $1,875 (0.25% typical)
Recording Fee: ~$200-$250
Total: ~$11,675-$11,725
Seattle/King County:
State REET: $9,600 (1.28%)
King County REET: $3,750 (0.5%)
Seattle REET: $3,750 (0.5%)
Recording Fee: ~$200-$250
Total: ~$17,300-$17,350
$2,000,000 Property:
Most Washington Counties:
State REET: $55,000 (2.75%)
Local REET: $5,000 (0.25% typical)
Recording Fee: ~$200-$250
Total: ~$60,200-$60,250
Seattle/King County:
State REET: $55,000 (2.75%)
King County REET: $10,000 (0.5%)
Seattle REET: $10,000 (0.5%)
Recording Fee: ~$200-$250
Total: ~$75,200-$75,250
REET Exemptions:
Gifts to family members (certain conditions apply)
Transfers between spouses
Certain governmental transfers
Inheritance transfers
Consult tax professional for specific exemptions
Note: Washington has NO state income tax, but among the highest property transfer taxes in the nation
If you'd prefer expert assistance with your warranty deed preparation, you can upgrade to our complete deed preparation service at any timeโand we'll credit back the full $9.99 cost of this template toward your service fee.
Our Washington warranty deed form is valid in all 39 Washington counties, including:
Puget Sound Region:
King County (Seattle)
Pierce County (Tacoma)
Snohomish County (Everett)
Thurston County (Olympia)
Kitsap County (Bremerton)
Whatcom County (Bellingham)
Skagit County (Mount Vernon)
Island County (Coupeville)
Eastside (King County):
Bellevue
Redmond
Kirkland
Sammamish
Issaquah
Mercer Island
Southwest Washington:
Clark County (Vancouver)
Cowlitz County (Longview)
Lewis County (Chehalis)
Grays Harbor County (Montesano)
Eastern Washington:
Spokane County (Spokane)
Yakima County (Yakima)
Benton County (Kennewick)
Franklin County (Pasco)
Walla Walla County (Walla Walla)
Central Washington:
Chelan County (Wenatchee)
Douglas County (Waterville)
Grant County (Ephrata)
Kittitas County (Ellensburg)
Olympic Peninsula:
Clallam County (Port Angeles)
Jefferson County (Port Townsend)
Mason County (Shelton)
And all other Washington counties
Our comprehensive instructions guide you through:
Gathering required property information
Obtaining the legal description and parcel number
Understanding Washington's six covenants of title
Determining the consideration amount
Completing the warranty deed form
Understanding Washington property ownership types
Properly executing the document
Understanding notarization requirements
Preparing Real Estate Excise Tax Affidavit
Calculating state and local REET
Filing with your County Auditor
Understanding recording fees and REET
Obtaining certified copies for your records
Understanding 3" top margin requirement
Home Sale
Most common use of warranty deeds
Full title protection for buyer
Required by mortgage lenders
Standard for residential transactions
Maximum buyer confidence
Seattle Metro Real Estate Sale
High-value transactions
Highest REET rates in state
Complex title issues
Professional documentation critical
Warranty deed standard
Investment Property Sale
Selling rental properties
Multi-unit building transfers
Commercial building 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
Eastside Property Transfer
Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland homes
High property values
Significant REET obligations
Standard warranty protection
Professional closings
Eastern Washington Sale
Spokane and Yakima properties
Lower REET than Puget Sound
Agricultural and residential
Standard warranty protection
More affordable transfers
โ Washington-Specific โ Complies with all Washington Revised Code ยง 64.04 requirements
โ All Six Covenants โ Includes complete covenant language required by Washington law
โ Proper Formatting โ Meets Washington's recording standards including 3" top margin
โ Up-to-Date โ Reflects current Washington property law
โ Professionally Drafted โ Created by legal document preparation experts
โ Easy to Customize โ Clear blanks for your specific information
โ REET Guidance โ Instructions for calculating Washington state and local REET
โ Parcel Number Format โ Proper tax lot number formatting
โ Multiple Formats โ Work in the format that suits you best
โ Instant Access โ Download immediately after purchase
To properly record your Washington warranty deed, you'll need:
Completed and signed warranty deed
Notarized acknowledgment
Real Estate Excise Tax Affidavit (completed)
State REET payment (1.1% to 3.0% depending on value)
Local REET payment (typically 0.25% to 0.5%)
Recording fee payment (varies by county, typically $200-$250)
Return address for recorded deed (top 3" of first page)
Proper formatting with 3" top margin on first page, 1" margins elsewhere
Legal description and parcel number (tax lot number)
Property address
Document title clearly visible
โ Incomplete legal description โ Must match exactly from prior deed
โ Missing parcel number (tax lot) โ Required in Washington
โ Wrong top margin โ Washington requires 3" top margin on first page
โ Wrong covenant language โ Must include all six covenants properly
โ Improper notarization โ Required for recording
โ Missing REET Affidavit โ Required for all transfers
โ Incorrect REET calculation โ Progressive state rate plus local rate
โ Forgetting local REET โ County and city REET in addition to state
โ Using wrong County Auditor office โ Must record in county where property located
โ Not paying off existing mortgage โ Seller must clear liens
โ Missing return address in top margin โ Required for recorded deed return
โ Forgetting property address โ Should be included for identification
Our Washington warranty deed template includes detailed instructions to help you avoid these common pitfalls.
Sole Ownership โ Single person owns entire interest
Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship โ Co-owners with automatic survivorship; property passes to surviving owner(s)
Tenants in Common โ Co-owners with separate shares; no automatic survivorship; shares pass through estate
Community Property โ Married couples in Washington; each spouse owns one-half interest
Community Property with Right of Survivorship โ Washington's popular option for married couples
Trust Ownership โ Property held in trust
Our template allows you to specify the ownership type when transferring property.
King County (Seattle):
Largest population in Washington
Most active real estate market
Highest REET rates in state (2.1% to 4.0% combined)
High property values
Title insurance essential
Professional closing services
Seattle REET Structure:
State REET: 1.1% to 3.0% (progressive)
King County REET: 0.5%
Seattle REET: 0.5%
Combined: 2.1% to 4.0% (among highest in nation)
Eastside (King County):
Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Sammamish
Very high property values
Tech industry influence
Same REET as rest of King County (no Seattle city tax)
Strong real estate market
Professional transactions standard
South King County:
Renton, Kent, Auburn, Federal Way
More affordable than Seattle/Eastside
Growing communities
Same King County REET
Active market
North King County:
Shoreline, Bothell, Kenmore
Mix of urban and suburban
Strong schools
Same REET structure
Popular family areas
Pierce County (Tacoma):
Second largest county
More affordable than King County
Port city
Lower REET than Seattle area
Growing market
Combined REET:
State REET: 1.1% to 3.0% (progressive)
Pierce County REET: 0.25% (typical)
Tacoma REET: 0.25% (if applicable)
Combined: 1.6% to 3.5%
Popular Areas:
Tacoma (urban waterfront)
Gig Harbor (waterfront community)
Puyallup (growing suburbs)
Lakewood (affordable)
University Place
Snohomish County (Everett):
North of King County
More affordable alternative
Growing tech presence
Lower REET than King County
Family-oriented communities
Combined REET:
State REET: 1.1% to 3.0% (progressive)
Snohomish County REET: 0.25%
Municipal REET: varies
Combined: 1.35% to 3.25% (typically)
Popular Areas:
Everett (county seat)
Lynnwood (south county)
Marysville (north county)
Mill Creek (planned community)
Mukilteo (waterfront)
Thurston County (Olympia):
State capital
Government center
Lower property values than Puget Sound
Lower REET rates
Stable market
Combined REET:
State REET: 1.1% to 3.0% (progressive)
Thurston County REET: 0.25%
Olympia REET: varies
Combined: 1.35% to 3.25% (typically)
Clark County (Vancouver):
Portland, Oregon metro area
No state income tax (Washington advantage)
Lower property values than Seattle
Growing rapidly
Popular with Oregon workers
Combined REET:
State REET: 1.1% to 3.0% (progressive)
Clark County REET: 0.25%
Vancouver REET: varies
Combined: 1.35% to 3.25% (typically)
Why Vancouver is Popular:
No Washington state income tax
Work in Oregon, live in Washington
More affordable than Portland area
Growing job market
Lower REET than Seattle
Spokane County (Spokane):
Largest Eastern Washington city
Much more affordable than Western Washington
Lower REET rates
Four seasons
Growing economy
Combined REET:
State REET: 1.1% to 3.0% (progressive)
Spokane County REET: 0.25% (typical)
City of Spokane REET: varies
Combined: 1.35% to 3.25% (typically)
Tri-Cities (Benton/Franklin Counties):
Kennewick, Pasco, Richland
Growing region
Nuclear/energy industry
Affordable properties
Lower REET than Western Washington
Yakima County:
Agricultural center
Affordable housing
Wine country
Lower property values
Lower REET burden
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 - may be REET exempt)
Quick transfer without warranties needed
While warranty deeds are essential for property sales, Washington residents have excellent options for estate planning:
For Property Sales (Use Warranty Deed):
Maximum buyer protection
Required by lenders
Standard for arms-length transactions
This form
For Estate Planning (Consider Alternatives):
Transfer on Death Deed - Washington's probate avoidance tool, maintains control during life
Living Trust - Comprehensive estate planning
Community Property Agreement - Washington-specific option for married couples
For Family Transfers (Consider Quitclaim):
Washington Quitclaim Deed - Simple family transfers, may be REET exempt
Washington's REET is one of the highest in the nation, but there's no state income tax:
Why REET is High:
No state income tax in Washington
REET helps fund state operations
Local governments also rely on REET
Progressive structure targets high-value properties
State REET Progressive Structure:
Properties under $500K: 1.1%
$500K - $1.5M: 1.28%
$1.5M - $3M: 2.75%
Over $3M: 3.0%
Local REET Additions:
Counties: typically 0.25%
Cities: typically 0.25%
Combined local: 0.25% to 1.0%
Total Combined Rates:
Low-value properties: 1.35% to 2.1%
Mid-value properties: 1.53% to 2.28%
High-value properties: 3.0% to 4.0%
Seattle has the highest - up to 4.0% combined REET
Washington REET is high, but consider:
No state income tax in Washington
No local income tax in Washington
Overall tax burden competitive
High earners benefit significantly
State Transfer Tax Comparison:
Washington: 1.1% to 3.0% (plus local)
Oregon: No state transfer tax (but has income tax)
California: Very low transfer tax (but high income tax)
Idaho: No state transfer tax
Pennsylvania: 1.0% state transfer tax
Need other Washington property forms? We also offer:
Washington Quitclaim Deeds โ For family transfers and non-sale situations
Washington Transfer on Death Deeds โ For estate planning and probate avoidance
Washington Special Warranty Deeds โ Limited warranty protection
Download your Washington warranty deed form today and complete your property transfer with the strongest title guarantees available under Washington law. For just $9.99, you'll have everything you need to prepare a professional Washington warranty deedโproviding maximum buyer protection and meeting all lender requirements!
Whether you're transferring:
Seattle and King County properties
Eastside homes (Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland)
Tacoma and Pierce County real estate
Everett and Snohomish County properties
Olympia and Thurston County homes
Vancouver and Clark County properties
Spokane and Eastern Washington real estate
Tri-Cities properties
Bellingham and Whatcom County homes
Waterfront and island properties
Investment and rental properties
Commercial buildings
New construction homes
Condominiums and townhomes
Our Washington warranty deed template provides the professional documentation and maximum title protection needed for successful property transfers throughout the Evergreen State.
Download Your Washington Warranty Deed Template Now - $9.99
No State Income Tax:
Washington has NO state income tax
Major advantage for high earners
Attracts workers from Oregon, California
Tech industry presence
High Property Transfer Taxes:
REET helps fund state without income tax
Progressive structure targets high-value sales
Local governments also rely on REET
Trade-off for no income tax
Total Tax Burden:
Competitive overall
Benefits high-income earners
Property buyers pay more upfront
No annual income tax burden
Market Characteristics:
Very competitive
High property values
Tech industry influence
Amazon, Microsoft, other tech companies
Strong demand
REET Impact:
Highest in state (up to 4.0%)
Significant closing cost
Buyers should budget accordingly
Still competitive despite high REET
Why People Choose Seattle Despite High REET:
High salaries (especially tech)
No state income tax
Career opportunities
Quality of life
Strong economy
While we offer our comprehensive Washington warranty deed template for just $9.99, we provide this valuable information about Washington warranty deeds for free to help you understand this important legal document:
Free Resources Included on This Page:
How Washington warranty deeds work
Six covenants of title explained
When to use warranty vs. quitclaim deeds
Washington REET calculations (state and local)
Seattle and King County-specific REET rates
Recording requirements
REET Affidavit requirements
3" top margin requirement
County-specific considerations
What You Get for $9.99:
Professionally drafted Washington warranty deed form
Multiple formats (Word, PDF, Google Docs)
Complete step-by-step instructions
All six covenants properly included
Recording guidelines for all Washington counties
State and local REET calculation worksheets
REET Affidavit instructions
Parcel number formatting guidance
3" top margin template formatting
Organized course platform access
Instant download
This small investment ensures your Washington property transfer includes maximum buyer protection and meets all legal requirements!
Legal Disclaimer
These templates are provided by Noble Notary & Legal Document Preparers for general informational use only. We are not attorneys, and no attorney-client relationship is created by your purchase. The forms are not a substitute for legal advice and may not be appropriate for every situation. You are solely responsible for ensuring the forms are lawful and appropriate for your specific circumstances.
Warranty deeds create significant legal obligations. The grantor warrants title and may be liable for title defects. Title insurance is strongly recommended for all property transfers. Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) in Washington varies significantly by location and property value, with Seattle and King County having the highest rates in the state. REET rates are subject to change. For complex situations, significant property values, or if you have questions about your obligations under the covenants or REET calculations, consult a licensed Washington real estate attorney or tax professional.
Forms are provided "as-is," without warranties of any kind. By purchasing, you agree that Noble Notary & Legal Document Preparers is not liable for any outcomes resulting from your use of these materials.
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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.