What is a deed?

A deed is a written document that is used to transfer ownership or title of property from one person to another. In Massachusetts, the deed must be signed by the grantor (the person giving up the title to the property) and must be notarized by a public notary. The deed must also be recorded in the registry of deeds in the county where the property is located in order for the transfer to be legally valid. A deed can be used to transfer real estate, such as land, a house, or a condominium, as well as chattel, which is personal property such as bank accounts, cars, or furniture. In addition, the deed can be used to create an easement or right-of-way, such as granting a neighbor access to a driveway or giving utility companies access to an area of land. Generally, a deed contains the legal names of the grantor and grantee, a description of the property, the consideration (money or other value) to be exchanged, and a statement that the grantor is transferring ownership of the property. The deed must also comply with Massachusetts deed requirements and must be signed and notarized in order for it to be valid and legally binding.

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