What is a key characteristic of a deed in real estate?

A key characteristic of a deed in real estate is that it must be in writing and signed to be enforceable. This requirement stems from legal principles surrounding the transfer of real property, which is governed by the Statute of Frauds. This statute mandates that any agreement related to the sale or transfer of real estate must be documented in writing to be deemed valid and enforceable in a court of law. The signature of the grantor (the person transferring the property) is also essential, as it demonstrates their intent to convey the property and indicates acceptance of the terms laid out in the deed.

In contrast, other options highlight incorrect concepts surrounding real estate transactions. A deed does not serve as a temporary lease, which is a distinct type of agreement meant for rental purposes. While some agreements can be made verbally, deeds are specifically required to be written to provide clarity and prevent disputes. Finally, conveying the terms of a property transfer verbally would not meet the legal requirements for enforceability, further underscoring the importance of the written form for deeds.