Transferring Property Ownership to a Spouse in a Washington Divorce

When spouses decide to transfer real property rights during or after a Washington divorce, a quitclaim deed is one common legal instrument used to formalize the transfer of ownership from one spouse to the other.

What Is a Quitclaim Deed?

A quitclaim deed is a legal document that transfers any ownership interest a grantor (the transferring spouse) has in a property to a grantee (the receiving spouse). This document typically does not guarantee that the property title is free of liens or other encumbrances. Instead, it “quits” any claim the grantor may have, effectively conveying whatever ownership rights they hold.

Common types of property transferred through a quitclaim deed include:

• Houses and Condos
• Land or Vacant Lots
• Mobile Homes
• Timeshares

Why Use a Quitclaim Deed in a Divorce?

In Washington, a quitclaim deed is often part of a property settlement or separation contract when couples decide how to distribute marital assets. Quitclaim deeds are:

• Straightforward: Quickly transfer any interest without extensive warranties.
• Cost-Effective: Typically simpler to execute compared to other types of deeds.
• Final: Remove the transferring spouse’s interest in the property, leaving sole ownership to the receiving spouse.

Important Considerations

• Existing Clients
  Send us an email with your Case ID and request a quitclaim deed for the property in question.
• New Clients
  If you haven’t used our divorce services, please email info@washingtondivorceservice.com  (for Washington clients, please reach out to a licensed Washington service or attorney) and inquire about our post-divorce quitclaim service.