Property transfers · Coming soon
Property transfers, made easier to understand.
Changing how real estate is owned can involve deeds, title records, notarization, county recording, and tax questions. The right steps depend on the property and the reason for the transfer. Pillar's property transfer service is not currently available.
Common property transfer situations
Transfer property into a trust
Understand how real estate can be transferred into an existing living trust. Signing a trust does not, by itself, change the ownership shown in property records.
Transfers between spouses
Learn how ownership changes between spouses may work. The intended ownership and any applicable tax exclusions need to be considered separately.
Add or remove someone from title
Understand the considerations involved in changing ownership, including the interests being transferred and the possible legal, lender, and tax consequences.
Transfer property after a death
Explore how the appropriate process depends on how the property is titled, the estate plan, and the circumstances. A new deed is not always the first or only step.
Correct a deed
Understand when an error in a recorded document may require correction. The appropriate method depends on the error; changing a recorded copy alone does not correct the public record.
More than signing a deed.
These are questions to review, not a universal list of steps. Requirements and consequences vary with the transaction.
- 01
How ownership is currently held
The recorded ownership, legal description, and interests involved help establish what needs review before a transfer is prepared.
- 02
The appropriate deed
Different instruments have different effects. Choosing the deed and how the new ownership should be stated calls for guidance suited to the transaction.
- 03
Notarization and recording
Review who must sign, which acknowledgments are needed, and how the document should be submitted. Recording does not replace legal review of the transfer.
- 04
County requirements and fees
Formatting, supporting reports, and recording charges can depend on the county and document. Confirm the current requirements rather than relying on a single statewide checklist.
- 05
Documentary transfer taxes
A tax declaration and supporting information may be needed even when an exemption applies. Eligibility depends on transaction facts, not just the title of the deed.
- 06
Property tax reassessment
A change in ownership can affect assessed value. Possible reassessment exclusions are a separate question from recording fees and documentary transfer tax exemptions.
How Pillar can help.
Our intended future service would help people understand the process, organize relevant information, and coordinate appropriate deed preparation and recording assistance through qualified professionals. This assistance is still being developed; we are not accepting property-transfer service requests.
Organizing records and coordinating administrative steps is different from giving legal advice. Pillar is not a law firm. Legal advice, instrument selection, ownership decisions, and document preparation requiring an attorney would remain with an appropriately licensed attorney. Tax questions may also need a qualified tax professional.
Coming soon
For now, start with the information.
Explore county recording resources, or contact Pillar with a general question. These resources do not begin a property-transfer service request.