General Warranty Deed

• Most common form of deed in Ohio. If there is just one buyer, title will upon death pass to such owner's heirs unless otherwise provided for by the owner's will. If there is more than one buyer, then a tenancy-in-Common among owners is created, which means that each buyer owners an "undivided" interest in property. Upon the death of one of the owners, title to their "undivided" part interest will pass to that owner's heirs unless otherwise provided for by the owner's will.
• Seller warrants title to be free and clear except as stated in deed. Seller takes on responsibility for soundness of entire chain of title.
• Although seller's warranties are desirable, title insurance has reduced their importance. Buyers and lenders generally rely on title insurance to protect investment. Therefore, title insurance is also a benefit to the selller as it may reduce actual exposure if old title defects arise.