Who is referred to as a "grantor" in a deed?

In the context of a deed, the term "grantor" specifically refers to the individual or entity that is transferring ownership of the property. This can be a person or a corporation that holds legal title to the property and is therefore able to convey that title to another party, which is known as the grantee. The grantor executes the deed to formally indicate their intention to transfer ownership and to relinquish their rights to the property.

Understanding this role is critical in real estate transactions because it establishes who has the authority to transfer property rights. The grantor must provide a clear statement of the intention to transfer ownership, ensuring that the transaction is legally recognized and binding. The concept of the grantor is paramount to establishing the chain of title, which is essential for proving ownership and ensuring that no claims are outstanding against the property.

This definition sets the grantor apart from other parties involved in the transaction, such as the buyer (grantee), a government entity that may oversee the transaction, or the real estate agent facilitating it. Their roles require different responsibilities and legal implications, but they do not involve the act of transferring ownership themselves.