How to Notarize a Real Estate Deed
Legal document transferring property ownership that requires notarization for recording.
Overview
Real estate deeds — including grant deeds, warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, and trust transfer deeds — are among the most critical documents that require notarization. County recorders' offices will not accept an unnotarized deed for recording, making notarization a mandatory step in any property transfer. A mobile notary can facilitate this process at your home, office, title company, or any convenient location.
When You Need This Notarized
- Buying or selling a home or commercial property
- Transferring property into or out of a trust
- Adding or removing a name from a property title
- Gifting real property to a family member
- Refinancing a mortgage
What to Bring
- The prepared deed document (unsigned)
- Valid government-issued photo ID for all signers
- Property address and legal description
- Any required witnesses (varies by state)
Step-by-Step Process
Have the deed prepared by a title company, attorney, or real estate professional
Schedule a notary appointment — mobile notaries can come to your closing location
All parties whose signatures require notarization must be present with valid ID
The notary verifies identities and witnesses the signing
The notary completes the notarial certificate and affixes their seal
File the notarized deed with the county recorder's office
Important Notes
- All signing parties must appear before the notary — a deed signed without notarization cannot be recorded
- Some states require a thumbprint in the notary journal for real estate documents (e.g., California)
- Verify the legal description and names are accurate before signing
- Quitclaim deeds transfer whatever interest the grantor has — they don't guarantee clear title
Cost
Notary fees are $2-$15 per signature depending on state. Real estate closings with multiple documents may involve signing agent fees of $75-$200+.
View fee caps by stateFrequently Asked Questions
Does a real estate deed need to be notarized?
Yes. All real estate deeds must be notarized to be accepted for recording by the county recorder's office.
Can a mobile notary handle a real estate closing?
Yes. Mobile notaries and loan signing agents regularly handle real estate closings at homes, offices, title companies, or any convenient location.
Do all parties need to be present for a deed notarization?
All parties whose signatures require notarization must appear before the notary with valid ID. However, they don't all need to sign at the same time or before the same notary.
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