Land records · Parcel maps · October 6, 2026
What Is Consideration on a Deed? Ten Dollars Explained
What is consideration on a deed? The value exchanged for property, often recited as "ten dollars and other good and valuable consideration."
What is consideration on a deed? Consideration is the value given in exchange for property, usually money. Many deeds recite consideration in general terms, such as “for ten dollars and other good and valuable consideration,” rather than stating the actual price. That nominal recital is traditional and keeps the price out of the deed itself. The real price often still becomes public through transfer tax forms or the assessor’s sales records. Gift deeds may recite “love and affection” or state that no consideration was paid. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
Common consideration recitals
| Recital | Typical situation |
|---|---|
| “Ten dollars and other good and valuable consideration” | Sale with price not stated |
| Actual price stated | Some states or preferences |
| “Love and affection” | Gift between family members |
| “No consideration” | Gift or transfer to a trust |
Is consideration required?
A deed can generally transfer title without consideration, as in a gift. However, consideration matters for other legal issues, such as whether a buyer is a bona fide purchaser protected by recording laws, or whether a transfer can be challenged by creditors. See what is a gift deed.
Transfer taxes
Many states and counties charge transfer taxes based on the actual price, which is declared on a separate form or stamped on the deed. The nominal recital does not reduce the tax. Some transfers, such as gifts or transfers to a trust, may be exempt. See what is a real estate transfer tax.
Finding the actual price
The sale price may be found in transfer tax stamps, assessor sales history, or state disclosure records. Some states are non-disclosure states where prices are not public.
Where it appears
Consideration is usually in or near the granting clause. See what is a granting clause and how to read a property deed.
Why ten dollars
The nominal figure traces to the historical requirement that a deed show some consideration. It persists by custom and doesn’t mean the property sold for ten dollars.
Consideration in family transfers
Transfers between relatives often involve little or no money. A parent adding a child to title, a couple moving property into a living trust, or a divorce transfer may recite nominal consideration or none. These transfers can have tax effects, such as gift tax reporting, loss of a stepped-up basis, or property tax reassessment in some states, so it helps to understand them before signing. Some states also require a statement explaining why a transfer is exempt from transfer tax.
Consideration and creditors
A transfer for little or no consideration made while the owner has unpaid debts may be challenged by creditors as a fraudulent transfer. Recording the transfer does not prevent such a challenge.
Bottom line
Consideration is the value exchanged for property. Deeds often recite “ten dollars and other good and valuable consideration” instead of the real price, which may appear in transfer tax records. Gifts can be valid without consideration, but it matters for transfer taxes and buyer protections. Find county recorders via the Platbookmapper map.
What is consideration on a deed FAQ
Why do deeds say ten dollars?
It is a traditional nominal recital; the actual price is often recorded elsewhere.
Is a deed valid without consideration?
Yes, gifts can transfer title without consideration.
Does stating ten dollars avoid transfer tax?
No, transfer tax is based on the actual price declared separately.
How do I find the real sale price?
Check transfer tax records or assessor sales history.
What consideration is used for gift deeds?
Often “love and affection” or none.