What legal requirements must a will meet to be valid in real estate?

To ensure a will is valid in the context of real estate, it must adhere to specific legal requirements, which include being written, signed by the testator, and witnessed. These elements serve crucial purposes in safeguarding the intentions of the person creating the will and ensuring that their wishes are honored after their death.

Being in writing is fundamental because it provides a clear, tangible record of the testator's wishes, which helps prevent disputes among heirs and simplifies the probate process. The signature of the testator is equally essential, as it signifies their approval and intention to create the will, rendering it an official expression of their desires. Witnessing is vital to provide impartial verification of the testator's identity and intention, thereby contributing to the authenticity and integrity of the document.

The other options presented do not fulfill the legal requirements for a valid will in most jurisdictions. Oral declarations, while they may have some validity in specific contexts (like nuncupative wills in dire situations), are not generally accepted for a standard will regarding real estate. Similarly, a will does not need to be signed by the executor or notarized to be valid; those are additional measures that may provide more assurance but are not legal necessities. Finally, submission to a court for approval is not required