Deed

A deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of real property from one party to another. It identifies the grantor and grantee, provides a legal description of the property and is signed and delivered to complete the transfer of title.

In real estate transactions and appraisals, a deed serves as evidence of ownership and is recorded in public land records to establish the chain of title. It matters because it legally establishes who holds interest in the property, influences financing and valuation decisions and helps ensure clear ownership during a sale or refinance.

Common related forms include warranty deeds and quitclaim deeds, which differ in the level of protection they provide to the buyer, and the deed works alongside title records and closing documents to finalize a transfer.