Michigan Deeds Explained

The deed is the legal document that transfers ownership from the seller to the buyer. A warranty deed gives the buyer the most protection available in Michigan.

The seller promises that:

• They legally own the property and can sell it
• It's free of liens and claims, except those listed in the deed
• No one else can claim ownership
• They will defend your title, even against problems from before they owned it

A covenant deed is very common in Michigan. It protects you, but only for the time the seller owned the home.

The seller promises that:

• They own the property and can sell it
• They did not create any liens or claims while they owned it
• They will defend you against problems from their time of ownership

Not covered

Problems from before the seller owned it, like an old unpaid lien.

With a quit claim deed, the seller promises nothing. They hand over whatever interest they have, which could be full ownership, part, or nothing.

Commonly used to:

• Add or remove a spouse or family member
• Transfer property in a divorce
• Move a home into a trust or LLC
• Fix a small error on a past deed

A ladybird deed (enhanced life estate deed) lets your home go to your loved ones without probate, while you keep full control during your lifetime.

With a ladybird deed:

• You stay the owner and live there as long as you want
• You can sell, refinance or change your mind, no one's signature needed
• At death, the home passes to the people you named, usually without probate

Compared with

Will only: usually still goes through probate. Quit claim to kids: you give up control today.

When a Michigan home is foreclosed, it's usually sold at a sheriff's sale. The winning bidder gets a sheriff's deed, but it isn't final right away.

The redemption period

• The former owner can pay off the debt and get the home back
• Usually 6 months, sometimes 30 days or 1 year
• The former owner can often stay in the home meanwhile

Before you bid

• Usually no inspection, sold as-is
• Payment is typically cash or certified funds
• Check for other liens and back taxes