Which statement best describes the effect of an unrecorded deed between grantor and grantee?

• A. It is void and cannot be enforced
• B. It provides notice to third parties
• C. It transfers title automatically upon signing
• D. It remains valid between the grantor and grantee even if not recorded

Answer: (D)

Recording acts govern notice to the world, not the validity of the deed between the people who signed it. A deed transfers title when it is properly executed and delivered, not merely when it’s signed. So an unrecorded deed can still be a valid transfer between the grantor and grantee, binding them to the agreed terms. However, because it isn’t recorded, it doesn’t provide notice to third parties and may be jeopardized by later claims or transactions from others who don’t know about it. The other statements misstate how deeds work: unrecorded deeds aren’t void, they don’t automatically convey title just by signing, and they don’t give third-party notice.