What characterizes a void deed?

A void deed is characterized by being unenforceable at all times due to a fundamental defect that renders it invalid from the outset. This can occur due to various reasons, such as the grantor lacking the legal capacity to convey the property (for example, if they are a minor or mentally incompetent), the deed lacking essential elements (like a signature), or it being executed under duress or fraud.

Since a void deed is never valid, it creates no legal rights or obligations regarding the property transfer, meaning that even if attempted to be recorded, it would not confer any rights to the grantee. This fundamental lack of enforceability distinguishes it from other types of deeds that may be valid under certain conditions or contingent upon acceptance, which are not applicable in the case of a void deed.