married, name change - new title/deed?

heidilynn43 · September 2012

One of the to-do's on my name change list is getting our house title/deed updated with my new name (was purchased by both of us, me with my maiden name). I found out that I basically have to go to a title company and get them to rewrite it. Called around and was rerouted to a law office. Here's his response:

"I'd just need a copy of the former deed, or the address (including county) to use to look it up online. The usual cost is $160 for the drafting of the deed and $200 for recordation, which includes the state and county fees and costs, for a total of $360."

Geez. Is this to be expected? I don't remember much of the separate costs from when we originally purchased the house 4 years ago.

Thanks!

April37 · September 2012

I wouldn't bother with a new title/deed if I were you. When DH and I bought our first house (before we we married), everything had my maiden name. I never updated those records after we got married. We sold that house about a year ago and all I had to do is verify that it was me - I think we just needed to provide a copy of our marriange license. For the closing paperwork, I had to sign everything twice - once in my maiden name and once in my married name. It wasn't a problem at all. I don't think it's worth the $$ to have your name changed on the paperwork now.