Which element is required for a deed to be valid?

• A. Grantee must sign
• B. Grantor must sign
• C. Deed must be recorded
• D. The property must be appraised

Answer: (B)

The essential element tested is that the grantor signs the deed. In a real property transfer, the grantor is the party who conveys the interest, and their signature is the formal act that shows consent to transfer title. Without the grantor’s signature, there isn’t a valid, binding conveyance, even if the deed describes the property and names the grantee. The grantee’s signature isn’t required to transfer ownership, and recording the deed isn’t necessary for validity (though recording provides notice and protects against later claims). An appraisal has no bearing on validity; it relates to value, not the legal ability to transfer title. Some deeds may require notarization or witnesses, but the pivotal requirement remains the grantor’s signature.