How to remove a person's name from a deed in Pennsylvania?

Question

I added an old acquaintance’s name to my house deed 10 years ago, supposedly for $1, with the understanding that he would own the house when I die, to help him stay in the country. I now want to remove him from the deed and add my three siblings instead. What steps do I need to take to remove his name from the deed? No legal action has been taken yet.

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

To remove your acquaintance's name from the deed in Pennsylvania, you'll first need to talk with him about voluntarily signing a new deed transferring his interest back to you. Since he was added to your deed willingly, the simplest method now would be for him to execute a "quitclaim deed," essentially relinquishing any rights he has in the property back to you. 
 
Once you have the quitclaim deed prepared, it must be signed by your acquaintance in the presence of a notary public. After it's notarized, take it to your local county recorder’s office to officially file it. This action legally removes your acquaintance's ownership interest and returns full ownership to you. 
 
After his name is off the deed, you can then execute a new deed transferring partial ownership to your three siblings. Again, this document must be notarized and recorded at the county recorder’s office. If your acquaintance refuses to voluntarily sign the quitclaim deed, you might need to explore legal action through the courts to resolve the matter. To ensure the deed paperwork is handled correctly, you should seek assistance from someone familiar with real estate law in Pennsylvania.

Q: How to remove a person's name from a deed in Pennsylvania?