Chicago, Illinois Warranty Deed for Surface and Mineral Interests: A warranty deed is a legal document used in real estate transactions to transfer ownership of property from one party to another. In the context of Chicago, Illinois, a warranty deed specifically pertains to the transfer of both surface and mineral interests within a property. A warranty deed for surface and mineral interests is a critical document that protects the buyer's rights by guaranteeing that the property's title is free of any defects or encumbrances. When acquiring real estate in Chicago, this type of warranty deed provides the buyer with the assurance that they are receiving full ownership of both the physical surface of the land and any mineral rights associated with it. In Chicago, Illinois, there are various types of warranty deeds for surface and mineral interests, each serving different purposes: 1. General Warranty Deed: This type of warranty deed offers the highest level of protection to the buyer. It guarantees that the property is free of any title defects or claims from previous owners, including surface and mineral interests. With a general warranty deed, the seller is legally bound to defend the buyer against any future claims or disputes that may arise regarding the property. 2. Special Warranty Deed: While similar to a general warranty deed, a special warranty deed differs in the extent of protection it provides. With a special warranty deed, the seller guarantees that they have not caused any defects or encumbrances in the title during their ownership. It covers only the period in which the seller owned the property, offering limited protection against any claims arising from previous owners. 3. Quitclaim Deed: A quitclaim deed is another form of warranty deed commonly used in Chicago, Illinois. However, it doesn't offer the same level of protection as the aforementioned warranty deeds. In a quitclaim deed, the seller transfers their ownership rights to the buyer without providing any guarantees or warranties regarding the title of the property. As a result, the buyer assumes all potential risks and claims associated with the surface and mineral interests. When acquiring real estate in Chicago, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the implications and protections offered by the different types of warranty deeds for surface and mineral interests. Engaging a qualified real estate attorney is highly recommended ensuring a smooth and legally sound transaction.