Mississippi Warranty Deed Reserving Life Estate

A Mississippi warranty deed reserving a life estate is a legal document used to transfer property ownership while allowing the grantor (the person selling or giving the property) to retain possession and use of the property for the duration of their life. This type of deed offers both an immediate transfer of the property's title and a mechanism for ensuring that the grantor can live on or use the property until their passing. In Mississippi, a warranty deed is a deed where the grantor (seller) guarantees that they hold clear title to a piece of real estate and have a right to sell it to the grantee (buyer). The guarantee is not limited to the time the grantor owned the property---it extends back to the property's origins. This means that the grantor is guaranteeing that there are no encumbrances or claims on the property from before they took ownership.

89-1-33. Effect of word "warrant" in conveyance. The word "warrant" without restrictive words in a conveyance shall have the effect of embracing all of the five (5) covenants known to common law, to wit: seizin, power to sell, freedom from incumbrance, quiet enjoyment and warranty of title.

Reservation of Life Estate: This section specifically states that the grantor is reserving a life estate in the property. By doing so, the grantor retains the right to possess, use, and obtain any profits from the property for the duration of their life. Upon the grantor's death, the life estate automatically terminates, and the grantee possesses the property in full, without any further legal action.

Estate Planning: One of the primary uses of a warranty deed reserving a life estate is in estate planning. It allows individuals to ensure that their heirs or chosen beneficiaries receive the property upon their death while retaining the ability to live on or use the property during their lifetime.
Avoiding Probate: By using a warranty deed with a life estate reservation, the property will automatically pass to the grantee upon the death of the grantor, often avoiding the need for probate.

Protection for the Grantor: Since the grantor retains a life estate, they can continue to live on the property and cannot be forced off by the grantee or any subsequent owner. The grantee cannot sell, mortgage, or otherwise encumber the property in a way that would affect the grantor's life estate.

Tax Implications: There may be tax implications related to transferring property with a reserved life estate, both in terms of gift taxes and potential capital gains taxes. It's essential for individuals considering this option to consult with tax professionals and estate planners.

In summary, a Mississippi warranty deed reserving a life estate offers a flexible tool for estate planning, allowing property owners to pass on their property to chosen beneficiaries while retaining rights to the property during their lifetime.

(Mississippi WD Reserving LE Package includes form, guidelines, and completed example) For use in Mississippi only.