Which document is essential for the completion of a real estate transaction?

The property deed is a critical document for the completion of a real estate transaction because it serves as the official legal instrument that conveys ownership of real estate from the seller to the buyer. The deed contains essential information that clearly identifies both parties, includes a description of the property, and outlines the rights being transferred. When a sale is finalized, the deed must be executed, typically by the seller, and then recorded in the appropriate county office to provide public notice of the new ownership. This recording establishes the buyer's legal claim to the property against future claims.

In contrast, while other documents such as lease agreements and brokerage agreements are important in various contexts of real estate transactions, they do not directly affect the transfer of title or ownership. A lease agreement pertains to rental arrangements, and a brokerage agreement outlines the relationship between a real estate agent and their client, which does not equate to the eventual transfer of property ownership. Seller authorization is necessary for the agent to act on behalf of the seller but is also not a document that finalizes the conveyance of property.