Most people assume that when a real estate deed is signed, it is effective. However, there is one more essential part of the process. Even if a deed is properly executed, it is not effective until it has been delivered to and accepted by the buyer. This can sometimes create bizarre results. Here is an example.

An elderly man properly signed, sealed and acknowledged a deed to his nephew and placed it in an old tin box in his room, where it was discovered shortly after he died. The nephew lost a contest with other heirs over the property because the deed was not delivered, and therefore, was not effective at the time of the old man's death.

Until the deed is delivered, the title remains with the seller, who could change his mind at any time and destroy the deed. But once the deed has been properly delivered and accepted, the title passes and cannot be revoked. Thus the old, old saying: signed, sealed (and notarized) -- and delivered.

	See All Tips In The "Real Estate Contracts" Category >
	See Complete Library Of Hundreds Of Tips In 30+ Categories >

June Seebohm
Keller Williams Realty, Hilton Head Island, SC
8 Lafayette Place
Hilton Head Island, SC. 29926
843-290-2929
843-682-8111
Fax: 843-681-3342
Email: June@AlwaysJune.com

June offers you a degree of personalized service rarely found among Realtors. Through a unique combination of devotion, compassion and good, old-fashioned hard work June has established an excellent reputation among, not only her clients but her peers as well. June is originally from Northern Ireland and has moved many times in the UK and US so she understand very well the kind of stress involved in residential sales and purchase. It's often an intense time of transition for all involved. Also her personal knowledge of building new homes and renovating homes is invaluable. Her high-tech office and staff allow immediate response to phone calls, emails and faxes. She is always "on the other end" of her cell phone. Please call her any time.