BR, "SW," "H&W," etc are seen on most deeds. I believe the importance lies in who owns what and who has to sign for the sale. If you were married, and going through a divorce, you wouldn't want your husband to be able to sell the house without your approval, would you? About a year ago, I read about a lady who found her husband cheating on her, and she sold his Lotus for $300 cash to get even before filing for divorce. People can be cruel.