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SB 1707

Registers of Deeds - As introduced, requires that a deed of conveyance of real property be prepared by an attorney licensed to practice in this state, a title insurance agent licensed in this state, the owner of the real property being transferred, or a person with legal authority to act on behalf of the owner of the real property being transferred; makes other changes related to deeds of conveyance. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 13; Title 23, Chapter 3; Title 66, Chapter 5, Part 1 and Title 66, Chapter 24.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Brent Taylor

Restricts deed preparation to licensed attorneys, title agents, property owners, or authorized representatives, potentially raising costs and limiting access to real estate document services.

Companion House Bill substituted
#registersofdeeds
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Bill Summary · SB 1707

Legislative bill overview

SB 1707 restricts who can prepare deed documents for real property transfers in Tennessee to only licensed attorneys, licensed title insurance agents, the property owner themselves, or someone with legal authority to act on the owner's behalf. The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee's property and deed-related statutes.

Why is this important

Deed preparation directly affects real estate transactions, which represent major financial commitments for most people. This restriction could impact accessibility and cost of property transfers by limiting who can assist with this legal document, potentially affecting DIY transactions and non-lawyer service providers.

Potential points of contention

  • Access and cost concerns: Restricting preparation to attorneys and licensed title agents may increase transaction costs for property owners who currently use paralegals, real estate agents without title licenses, or prepare documents themselves
  • Definition ambiguity: "Legal authority to act on behalf of the owner" is undefined and could create disputes about who qualifies (trustees, guardians, corporate representatives, power-of-attorney holders)
  • Professional licensing impact: May benefit attorneys and title insurance agents economically while limiting competition from other document preparation services or title companies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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