What does the seller promise with a general warranty deed regarding the title of the property?

The correct option highlights a critical aspect of a general warranty deed. When a seller conveys property using this type of deed, they guarantee that the title is free from encumbrances. This means that there are no outstanding claims or legal rights against the property that could affect the buyer’s ownership. The seller is promising that they hold clear title to the property and that they have the legal right to sell it.

This assurance provides a significant level of protection to the buyer, as it indicates that if any title issues arise, such as undisclosed liens or claims from third parties, the seller would be responsible for addressing those problems. The general warranty deed typically covers the entire period of the seller's ownership, which adds an additional layer of security for the buyer.

In contrast, other options describe different aspects of property ownership but do not accurately capture the fundamental promise made by the seller in a general warranty deed. For instance, while a title free from defects is important, the phrase "free from encumbrances" is specifically clear about the absence of claims against the property. This nuanced difference is essential for understanding the protections afforded to a buyer during real estate transactions.