What type of deed provides warranties that the title is clear and that the grantor has the legal ability to transfer the property?

The type of deed that provides warranties ensuring that the title is clear and that the grantor has the legal ability to transfer the property is a Warranty Deed. This deed offers the highest level of protection for the grantee (the recipient of the property) because it includes comprehensive assurances from the grantor (the seller) about the validity of the title.

Specifically, a Warranty Deed guarantees that the grantor will defend the title against any claims, and it promises that there are no undisclosed encumbrances or liens on the property. This assurance is critical for protecting the buyer's investment, as it establishes that the grantor had the right to convey the property and that the title is free from any potential disputes.

In contrast, other types of deeds, such as Quit Claim Deeds and Special Warranty Deeds, provide varying levels of protection. For instance, a Quit Claim Deed transfers whatever interest the grantor has without providing any guarantees about the clarity of the title. A Special Warranty Deed offers limited warranties, only covering the period during which the grantor owned the property, and does not protect against defects that may have originated before that time. Consequently, the Warranty Deed is the most advantageous choice for a buyer seeking security