A warranty deed is a legal document used in real estate transactions to transfer ownership of a property from one party to another. Specifically, a "Warranty Deed to Separate Property of One Spouse to Both Spouses as Joint Tenants" is a type of warranty deed that is commonly used in the state of Michigan, specifically in Ann Arbor. This particular type of deed is used when one spouse wants to transfer their separate property to both spouses as joint tenants. It essentially allows the couple to hold the property as joint tenants with the right of survivorship, meaning that if one spouse were to pass away, the other spouse would become the sole owner of the property. The main purpose of a warranty deed is to provide a guarantee or warranty that the transfer of ownership is valid and free from any encumbrances or claims made by other parties. It ensures that the person transferring the property has the legal right to do so and that the property is free from any title defects. There are a few different variations of the "Warranty Deed to Separate Property of One Spouse to Both Spouses as Joint Tenants," which include: 1. General Warranty Deed: This type of deed provides the highest level of protection to the buyer, as it guarantees that the seller will defend the title against any claims. 2. Special Warranty Deed: This deed only provides a warranty against any claims made by the seller, not against claims that arose before the seller acquired the property. 3. Quitclaim Deed: Unlike a warranty deed, a quitclaim deed does not provide any warranties or guarantees. It simply transfers whatever interest the seller may have in the property, without any promise of clear title. When using any type of warranty deed, it is important to consult with a qualified real estate attorney to ensure all legal requirements and formalities are met. Additionally, it is recommended to conduct a title search or obtain title insurance to further protect against any potential title defects or encumbrances. In conclusion, a "Warranty Deed to Separate Property of One Spouse to Both Spouses as Joint Tenants" is a type of warranty deed commonly used in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It allows for the transfer of ownership of separate property to both spouses as joint tenants with the right of survivorship. Different variations of this deed include the general warranty deed, special warranty deed, and quitclaim deed. Seeking legal advice and conducting due diligence are critical steps to ensure a smooth and legally sound transaction.