On the settlement statement, who signs the Warranty Deed?

On the settlement statement, the Warranty Deed is signed by the seller. This document serves as a formal transfer of title from the seller to the buyer, guaranteeing that the seller legally owns the property and has the right to sell it. By signing the Warranty Deed, the seller makes certain promises to the buyer regarding the property's condition, against third-party claims, and provides assurances that the title is clear of any liens or encumbrances, except those disclosed in the transaction.

The buyer, while actively involved in the transaction and their own signature is needed on various documents, does not sign the Warranty Deed itself, as they are the recipient of the title rather than the transferor. The mortgage lender and the closing agent also do not sign the Warranty Deed, although their roles are essential within real estate transactions—typically managing the paperwork and providing financing, respectively. Understanding these roles helps clarify the responsibilities each party holds during a property transfer.