How is "deed" best defined in real estate?

In the context of real estate, a deed is best defined as a legal document that conveys property ownership from one party to another. This definition captures the fundamental purpose of a deed, which is to transfer title to real property, providing the new owner with the legal rights associated with ownership. A deed must typically be executed in writing and delivered to be effective, and it often includes important details such as the names of the parties involved, a description of the property, and the signatures of the grantor (the person transferring the property) and often the grantee (the person receiving the property).

Other options describe different types of documents relevant to real estate but do not align with the primary function of a deed. For instance, a lease outlines terms for temporary occupancy but does not transfer ownership, while a document indicating tax obligations relates to the financial responsibilities of property ownership rather than the ownership itself.