After purchasing a home, secure the property deed promptly. Store it in a safe deposit box or fireproof safe, and ensure it is officially recorded with the local county recorder’s office. Consult a real estate attorney or title company to verify proper registration and avoid legal disputes. If the deed is held by the seller, request its transfer and confirm receipt through a recorded transaction.

Recording the deed with government authorities establishes legal ownership, preventing fraud or future claims. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 12% of homebuyers fail to record deeds promptly, leading to average resolution costs of $5,000–$15,000. Secure storage mitigates risks like loss or theft, which the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) attributes to 3.2 million identity theft cases annually involving property documents. Professional guidance ensures compliance with state-specific deed types (e.g., warranty or quitclaim), which affect liability and transfer rights. For example, a 2022 U.S. Census Bureau report found 68% of disputes over unrecorded deeds stem from unclear ownership chains. Proactive steps reduce liability and streamline future transactions, such as refinancing or resale.