The 5 Types of Deeds in Colorado — What Every Agent Should Know
By Brenna Harper · August 13, 2026 · 5 min read
Understanding the type of deed used in a transaction is essential for every real estate professional in Colorado. Here are the five principal types and what each one means for your clients.
1. Special Warranty Deed
In a Special Warranty Deed, the seller (grantor) says, in effect: "I only warrant that I have done nothing to make the title bad or defective or encumbered while I have owned it; that I have good, right and lawful authority to sign and deliver this deed; that the title which this deed conveys is good and clear insofar as my actions are concerned."
2. General Warranty Deed
In a General Warranty Deed, the seller says: "I warrant that I have good title to the land, that there are no material defects in my title and no outstanding interests held by third parties; that there are no mortgages, unpaid taxes or other liens or encumbrances outstanding on the land; that I have good, right and lawful authority to sign and deliver this deed; and that this deed conveys to the purchaser good, indefeasible title to the land."
3. Bargain and Sale Deed
Sometimes called a fee simple deed. There is an implication that the grantor owns the real estate, but the seller makes no representations or warranties with respect to title or anything else.
4. Quit Claim Deed
There are no warranties, representations, or even an implication that the grantor owns or holds title. The grantor simply states: "I surrender to you and quit claim and abandon all claims and interests, if any, which I may have in the land described herein." While seldom used to convey titles, a Quit Claim Deed will pass title if the grantor owns the land.
5. Personal Representative Deed
Executed by a court-appointed fiduciary and must be backed by Letters of Appointment. These only convey the interest in the property which the estate controls, and lack the same warranties as a Bargain and Sale Deed. These deeds cannot be prepared by title insurance companies.
The above information is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.
Questions about deeds or your next transaction? Contact Brenna Harper — brenna.harper@ctt.com | 303-748-3965.