Do it Yourself Closing on a free property (Allegheny Pittsburgh)

[Jamie Lennox]

Dear Bigger Pockets community,

The Situation: I have contacted an out of town property owner in Pennsylvania who is willing to give the property away if I take on the back taxes. Even with a rehab the ARV would be low (15-20k). I have contacted all taxing authorities and determined there is 3200 tax owed on the property which we are willing to pay, and a minor sewage lien.

As there is no money being transferred here I was hoping to do the closing myself. I am aware every REI and his dog is against this strategy. However here me out: I have completed law school (in Australia) and had some experience writing and examining deeds before. I have been wanting to do a closing on my own for the experience and get a greater understanding

I have written a deed that is compliant with all Allegheny county regulations on the website and am planning to drive to the sellers hometown and sign the deed in the presence of a notary.

Any major flaws in this plan?

Regards, 

Jamie

[Bill Devola]

Other than making a typo, screwing something up, and needing to take months of your life to correct it?  No.   LOL

Its not engineering a defense system.  It can be done by a lay person.  I've done it before.  But for $150 bucks I'm sure you can find a title company to draft one for you.  I'd have questions about the rest of your deal.  

Also, each county has its own rules on which stamps, affidavits, and other documents might be needed to record the deed.  Leave one of these out, and you'll get rejected at recording.  You can call up the recorders office and ask what they require.  One thing you have going for you:  you're not paying for the property, so the owner can't exactly dupe you out of money!