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Real Estate (Deed) Property Transfers - More Info

Property ownership changes happen for many reasons—marriage, divorce, inheritance, estate planning, or simply wanting to add or remove someone from title. When you need to transfer real estate, having properly prepared deed paperwork can save time, money, and complications down the road.

 

As a registered Document Assistant (LDA) in Riverside County, I assist clients by preparing the necessary deed documents clearly, accurately, and based entirely on their direction. Whether you are transferring property to a family member, placing it into a trust, or updating ownership after a life event, I help ensure your documents are correct and ready for recording with the county.

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Quitclaim deeds and grant deeds are two of the most commonly used forms in real estate transfers. A quitclaim deed allows one person to transfer any ownership interest they have in a property without making guarantees about the title. It’s often used between family members or in low-risk transactions. A grant deed, on the other hand, transfers ownership and guarantees that the title hasn’t been transferred to someone else. Depending on your situation, I can help you complete the required deed and supplemental forms, and provide filing instructions specific to Riverside County.

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Interspousal transfer deeds are often used when property is being transferred between spouses—whether due to marriage, divorce, or estate planning. These deeds are structured to minimize or eliminate reassessment of property taxes under California’s rules. I help you prepare interspousal deeds properly, and also ensure the correct exemptions are claimed through the Preliminary Change of Ownership Report (PCOR), which is often required for recording. If you are adding your spouse to title, removing them as part of a divorce, or managing real estate after a spouse’s passing, I can help you get the paperwork in order.

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When a property owner passes away, updating the title often involves more than just notifying the county. In California, an Affidavit of Death is required to remove a deceased joint tenant, trustee, or spouse from the title. I assist with preparing Affidavits of Death and the required attachments, including certified copies of death certificates, and help ensure the transfer is handled according to local recording rules. For trust-held properties, a trustee may need to update or transfer the property into the name of a successor. I prepare trust transfer deeds and related documents that reflect your direction and help ensure continuity for the property.

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Another important tool for estate planning is the Transfer on Death (TOD) deed. This allows a property owner to name a beneficiary who will inherit the property without the need for probate. I help prepare these deeds based on your instructions and ensure they meet California’s strict formatting and signature requirements. While a TOD deed may not be suitable for every situation, it can be a useful option for individuals seeking a simple, low-cost way to handle real estate inheritance.

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Throughout all property transfers, I also help clients complete the Preliminary Change of Ownership Report (PCOR), which is required by the county when recording a deed. This form helps the county assessor determine whether the transfer will trigger property tax reassessment. Accurate completion of this form is just as important as the deed itself. I guide you through what’s needed and ensure all documents are aligned for successful recording.

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I cannot provide advice or tell you what type of deed to use, but once you know your preferred transfer method, I prepare the documents with care, clarity, and local compliance in mind. Whether you're planning ahead, settling an estate, or making a family property adjustment, I’ll help you handle the paperwork confidently and affordably. Contact me today to start the process.

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