What instrument is used to transfer title to real property from grantor to grantee?

• A. Mortgage
• B. Lease
• C. Bill of sale
• D. Deed

Answer: (D)

Transferring ownership of real property is accomplished with a deed. The deed is the instrument that conveys title from the grantor to the grantee and is the document that actually passes ownership. For a transfer to be effective, the deed must describe the property, identify the grantor and grantee, include words of conveyance, be properly signed by the grantor, and be delivered and accepted. Recording the deed in the county records provides public notice of the transfer.

A mortgage is a loan secured by the property and does not transfer ownership; a lease grants a temporary possession right rather than ownership; and a bill of sale transfers title to personal property, not real property. Deeds come in several forms (general warranty, special warranty, quitclaim, etc.), but their primary role is to transfer title.