Most people assume that when a real estate deed is signed, it is effective. However, there is one more essential part of the process. Even if a deed is properly executed, it is not effective until it has been delivered to and accepted by the buyer. This can sometimes create bizarre results. Here is an example.

An elderly man properly signed, sealed and acknowledged a deed to his nephew and placed it in an old tin box in his room, where it was discovered shortly after he died. The nephew lost a contest with other heirs over the property because the deed was not delivered, and therefore, was not effective at the time of the old man's death.

Until the deed is delivered, the title remains with the seller, who could change his mind at any time and destroy the deed. But once the deed has been properly delivered and accepted, the title passes and cannot be revoked. Thus the old, old saying: signed, sealed (and notarized) -- and delivered.

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Leigh Hill and Maria Dudley
Weichert Realtors
142 Main Street
Chester
New Jersey 07930
Leigh Hill's Cell : 908-256-2364
Maria Dudley's Cell: 201-274-5273
E-Fax : 1-888-859-0247
E-Mail: leighHill@aol.com

The Leigh Hill Team is dedicated to providing the best possible professional service in the real estate industry for the past 30 years. Leigh, A NJ MILLION DOLLAR GOLD CLUB Award winner for 7 years, Leigh Hill's priorities include a high degree of quality-executed sales for her and Maria's clients. Leigh and Maria are responsible for some of the most prestigious residential developments,and single family homes in Morris and Somerset County. Their knowledge, honesty and commitment to results are the foremost reasons for their continued success. Contact "The Leigh Hill Team" for all of your real estate needs in Northwest New Jersey.