Which document typically transfers ownership of real estate from the seller to the buyer?

The deed is the document that serves to officially transfer ownership of real estate from the seller to the buyer. It is a legal document that contains the description of the property and outlines the rights being conveyed to the new owner. Once the deed is signed by the seller and delivered to the buyer, it becomes an instrument of title, meaning that it effectively changes the ownership of the property.

A mortgage agreement, while important in the financing of the property, does not transfer ownership; instead, it establishes a lien on the property as security for the loan. A bill of sale generally pertains to the transfer of personal property, not real estate, and is not applicable in this context. Likewise, a closing statement outlines all financial aspects of the transaction at closing but does not itself transfer ownership. Thus, the deed is the critical document that legally formalizes and completes the transfer of real estate ownership.