Why Title Companies Require a Certified Divorce Decree: What To Know

"When selling a home after a divorce, it's vital to navigate the complexities of ownership changes resulting from the dissolution of the marriage. Title companies play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transaction by requiring specific documentation to verify ownership rights. Understanding the importance of providing a certified divorce decree and other necessary paperwork can streamline the selling process during an already challenging time."

"Ownership transfer methods: After a divorce, the transfer of home ownership to one spouse can occur through a quitclaim deed, a court-ordered transfer, or refinancing to remove the other spouse's financial responsibility. Required documentation: Title companies typically need a certified divorce decree, a recorded quitclaim deed, and proof of refinancing if both spouses were on the original loan to establish clear ownership."

Selling a home after a divorce requires verifying changes in ownership that result from the dissolution of the marriage. Title companies require specific documentation—commonly a certified divorce decree, a recorded quitclaim deed, and proof of refinancing—to confirm which party holds legal title and to remove prior loan obligations. Ownership can transfer via quitclaim deed, court order, or refinancing that eliminates the other spouse's financial responsibility. Clear documentation expedites the sale, reduces title exceptions, and protects buyers by ensuring ownership is uncontested before closing.

Read at SFGATE