What document is used to sell real estate?

The document used to sell real estate is a deed. This legal instrument is essential in the transfer of ownership of property from one party to another. When a property is sold, the deed serves as a formal declaration of the ownership change, detailing the specifics of the property and clearly identifying the seller (grantor) and the buyer (grantee).

The deed must typically be executed with certain formalities, such as being signed by the grantor and often notarized, to ensure its validity. It is then recorded with the local government to provide public notice of the new ownership. This process protects the interests of both parties by documenting the sale and establishing a clear chain of title.

In contrast, other options listed serve different purposes. For instance, a bill of sale typically applies to the transfer of personal property, a lease agreement outlines the terms of rental arrangements, and a rental agreement governs the terms of tenancy, but none of these facilitate the sale or transfer of real estate ownership like a deed does.