Quitclaim deeds are one of the most common documents used to transfer property ownership in Florida. They are frequently used between family members, spouses, or in situations where property ownership needs to be updated quickly without a traditional sale.
However, a quitclaim deed must be properly executed and notarized to be valid and accepted by the county recorder. Even small mistakes can cause the deed to be rejected.
This guide explains how to notarize a quitclaim deed in Florida, the legal requirements involved, and common mistakes to avoid.
Are you looking for the top-rated mobile notary in Martin County, Florida? Call or text Treasure Coast Notary Service at 561-545-7278, or visit our contact page.
What Is a Quitclaim Deed?
A quitclaim deed transfers whatever ownership interest a person has in a property to another person. Unlike a warranty deed, it does not guarantee a clear title; it simply transfers the grantor’s interest.
Quitclaim deeds are commonly used for:
- Transfers between spouses
- Transfers between family members
- Adding or removing someone from a property title
- Divorce property settlements
- Estate planning
- Correcting title errors
Because these transfers often happen outside traditional real estate sales, many people handle the process themselves.
Florida Requirements for Quitclaim Deeds
Florida law requires specific steps for a quitclaim deed to be valid.
A Florida quitclaim deed must include:
- Name of the grantor (person transferring the property)
- Name of the grantee (person receiving the property)
- Legal description of the property
- County where the property is located
- Signature of the grantor
- Two witnesses
- Notary acknowledgment
Without witnesses and notarization, the deed cannot be recorded.
Do Quitclaim Deeds Need to Be Notarized in Florida?
Yes.
Florida law requires the grantor’s signature to be notarized on a quitclaim deed.
The notary verifies:
- The identity of the signer
- That the signer is signing voluntarily
- The completion of the acknowledgment certificate
The notary does not verify ownership or the accuracy of the deed contents.
Witness Requirements for Florida Deeds
Florida also requires two witnesses for property deeds.
Important points:
- Both witnesses must watch the grantor sign
- Witnesses must sign the deed
- One witness may be the notary in some situations
- Witnesses must be present at the time of signing
Many people are surprised by this requirement, and missing witnesses is a common reason deeds are rejected.
Step-by-Step: How to Notarize a Quitclaim Deed
1. Prepare the Deed
Make sure the deed is fully completed before the signing.
The deed should include:
- Full legal names
- Property legal description
- County information
- Correct formatting
Do not leave blank fields.
2. Gather the Required Signers
The following people should be present:
- The grantor (person transferring ownership)
- Two witnesses
- A notary public
The grantee does not have to be present.
3. Verify Identification
The notary will verify the grantor’s identity using a valid ID, such as:
- Driver’s license
- State ID
- Passport
- Military ID
The name should reasonably match the deed.
4. Sign the Deed
The grantor signs the quitclaim deed in front of:
- The witnesses
- The notary
The witnesses then sign the deed.
5. Notary Completes the Acknowledgment
The notary will:
- Complete the acknowledgment certificate
- Sign the certificate
- Apply the official notary seal
This step makes the deed legally notarized.
Recording the Quitclaim Deed
After notarization, the deed must be recorded with the county clerk or recorder where the property is located.
Recording establishes the public record of the ownership transfer.
The county will require:
- Recording fees
- Documentary stamp tax (in most cases)
Failure to record the deed means the transfer may not be recognized.
Common Mistakes When Notarizing Quitclaim Deeds
Many deeds are rejected due to simple mistakes.
Common errors include:
- Missing witnesses
- Incorrect legal description
- Signing before meeting the notary
- Blank sections on the deed
- Improper notary certificate
- Using outdated forms
These errors can delay property transfers and require the deed to be redone.
When a Mobile Notary Is Helpful
Mobile notaries are often used for deed transfers when:
- Family members are transferring property
- The signer cannot travel
- Multiple people must sign
- The signing must happen at home or in a facility
- Scheduling during evenings or weekends is needed
A mobile notary can travel to homes, offices, hospitals, or other convenient locations.
Final Thoughts
Quitclaim deeds are a common way to transfer property ownership in Florida, but they must be executed carefully. Florida requires both witnesses and notarization, and missing either requirement can cause the deed to be rejected by the county.
Working with a knowledgeable notary and preparing documents properly helps ensure the transfer is completed smoothly and legally.
Do you need a mobile notary in Martin County, Florida? Call or text Treasure Coast Notary Service at 561-545-7278, or visit our contact page.
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