What does a general warranty deed guarantee for the buyer?

A general warranty deed is a legal document that provides significant assurances to the buyer about the property's title. By selecting the option stating that the seller has clear title to the property, you are recognizing one of the key assurances provided by this type of deed.

When a buyer receives a general warranty deed, the seller is promising that they own the property outright and have the right to sell it. This means the title is not only valid and free from any undisclosed claims, but it is also guaranteed against any issues that may arise, even those that occurred before the seller took possession. The seller is responsible for defending the title against any claims that may come up, further solidifying the protection provided to the buyer.

In this context, the other options do not accurately reflect the guarantees made by a general warranty deed. For example, the deed does not ensure that the property is free of debts—that depends on the seller’s financial situation and existing liens. Additionally, it does not promise that the property is always in perfect condition nor does it guarantee that the property will appreciate in value, as these are influenced by market conditions and not by the deed itself.