What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Pennsylvania. I have been a widow for 4 1/2 years and inherited my home when my husband died. His name is still on the deed. I am 70 years old. I am living with a younger man to whom I would like to leave my home at my demise. I have two questions: How do I have my late husband's name removed from my deed? What is the easiest way for my friend to inherit my house? Would it simplify matters if we were married? Thank you for your help.
http://www.alleghenycounty.us/re/mortdeed.aspx
"1.Why should I record my deed?
Under Pennsylvania law, for the transfer of property to be binding on third parties, the deed must be recorded in this office. The purchaser named on the last recorded deed is the current legal owner.
2.Where is my deed?
When a deed is recorded, a permanent record (scanned image) is made and a specific deed book volume and page number is assigned to the deed. The very next working day, the original deed is mailed back to the address placed on the deed by the recording party. This is normally the name of the new purchaser or the attorney or title company who prepared the deed. If you do not have your deed, check with your attorney or title company, or you may obtain a copy from this office. A mail request for a certified copy of a deed is $10.00. If you prefer to come into the office to obtain a certified copy, the charge is $5.00
3.May the Manager of Real Estate change a name on my deed?
NO. The Department of Real Estate is not permitted to change the name on any deed. If you want a name changed, added, or removed, a new deed must be prepared and recorded in this office. Consult with an attorney about preparing a new deed."
and
"6.If my spouse dies, do I need a new deed?
NO. If your deed reads “John Jones and Mary Jones, his wife” and either spouse dies, the surviving spouse does not need a new deed. By operation of law, the surviving spouse automatically assumes full title to the property."
