How do Ohio lower courts view a reservation in a deed in favor of a third party?

In Ohio, lower courts typically view a reservation in a deed in favor of a third party as void. The rationale behind this is that a reservation in a deed should generally benefit the grantor or the direct parties involved in the transaction. When a deed includes a reservation intended for a third party who is not a party to the deed, it can lead to complications regarding enforceability and ownership rights.

Ohio courts have established precedents indicating that any such reservations do not create legally binding rights for individuals who were not part of the original contractual agreement. This perspective promotes clarity and stability in property transfers, ensuring that the rights associated with property remain with the original parties unless clearly stipulated otherwise.

Understanding this principle is crucial for individuals involved in real estate transactions in Ohio, as it emphasizes the importance of structuring agreements with clear, enforceable terms that directly benefit the parties engaged in the transaction.