When transferring property, what legal document is typically used?

The legal document typically used when transferring property is a deed. A deed is a formal written document that provides evidence of ownership and the transfer of real estate from one party to another. It outlines the specifics of the transfer, including the names of the grantor (the seller) and grantee (the buyer), a description of the property, and any conditions or restrictions related to the transfer.

Deeds must be executed properly and usually require notarization to be legally binding. They serve as a crucial proof of the change in ownership and are recorded in public records to protect the rights of the new owner and to provide notice to the world of the ownership change.

While the other options relate to property in different contexts—like a bill of sale for personal property transfers, contracts for agreements to buy or sell (but not the actual transfer), and leases for rental agreements—none of these serve the specific purpose of transferring ownership of real estate like a deed does. Thus, a deed is the correct choice for the legal document needed in property transfer.