Which document is usually required to transfer property ownership?

The document that is typically required to transfer property ownership is a deed. A deed is a legal instrument that conveys title or ownership of real property from one party to another. It includes essential details such as the names of the grantor (the seller) and grantee (the buyer), a description of the property, and often the consideration (the amount of money exchanged for the property).

When a deed is properly executed and delivered, it acts as evidence of the ownership transfer and is usually recorded in the public land records to provide public notice of the ownership change. This legal procedure ensures clarity of property rights and helps to resolve any disputes regarding ownership in the future.

In contrast, a lease agreement is used for rental situations and does not convey ownership rights. An appraisal report assesses the value of the property but does not affect ownership transfer. A property disclosure statement provides information on the condition of the property but does not serve as a means of transferring ownership.