Which principle requires certain real estate contracts to be in writing to be enforceable?

• A. Parol evidence rule
• B. Statue of limitations
• C. The statute of frauds
• D. Principal-agent law

Answer: (C)

The statute ofFrauds is the rule that requires certain real estate contracts to be in writing to be enforceable. In real estate, agreements for the sale of land or any interest in land—and related long-term leases—must be memorialized in writing. This prevents disputes about terms and ensures there is a verifiable record of the deal, including price, duties, and signatures, which courts can enforce. If such contracts aren’t written, they’re generally not enforceable in court, though jurisdictions may allow limited exceptions like partial performance that validate the portion already carried out. The other concepts don’t set this writing requirement: the parol evidence rule governs what external promises can be used to interpret a written contract, not whether a contract must be in writing; the statute of limitations caps how long you have to sue; and principal-agent law covers the duties and authority within the real estate relationship, not enforceability by writing.