Direct answer
What does deed mean?
A deed is a written instrument used to transfer an interest in real property.
Exam cue: A valid transfer requires the deed to meet legal requirements and be delivered and accepted.
What does it look like in a question?
Example
At closing, the seller delivers a properly executed deed to the buyer.
Common exam trap
What should you not confuse it with?
The deed transfers an interest. Title is the legal ownership interest itself.
Related property rights and title terms
EasementAn easement is a nonpossessory right to use another person's land for a stated purpose.EncroachmentAn encroachment is a physical improvement that crosses a property line or intrudes into another protected area.Fee simpleFee simple is the broadest private ownership estate, potentially lasting indefinitely and subject to government powers and private restrictions.FixtureA fixture is an item that began as personal property but is treated as part of the real property because of attachment, adaptation and intent.Joint tenancyJoint tenancy is concurrent ownership that includes a right of survivorship when it is properly created.LienA lien is a claim or charge against property that can secure payment or performance.
Sources used2 references with section locators
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