A deed or property deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of real property (real estate) from a seller to a buyer. A deed must state the names of the seller and the buyer and must include a complete legal description of the property being transferred.

A deed must also include the signature of the seller, which must be acknowledged (signed) by a notary public to verify the identity of the person signing the deed and for the seller to declare to the notary that the seller signed the deed willingly and voluntarily, and was not coerced into signing it.

In New York State, a deed is an essential legal document for transferring ownership of real property from a seller (grantor) to a buyer (grantee). To be legally effective, the deed must clearly state the names of both the seller and the buyer, and it must contain a complete and accurate legal description of the property. This description typically includes the property's boundaries, any easements, and other relevant details that define the property being transferred. Additionally, the deed must be signed by the seller. This signature must be acknowledged before a notary public, who verifies the identity of the seller and ensures that the seller is signing the deed willingly and without coercion. The notarization process is a critical step in confirming the authenticity of the deed and protecting against fraud. Once properly executed, the deed should be recorded with the county clerk's office in the county where the property is located to provide public notice of the change in ownership.