In real estate terms, what does a patent refer to?

In real estate, a patent refers to a sovereign grant, which is the official and formal act of a government transferring ownership of land or property to an individual or entity. This type of grant typically indicates that title to land is being given in a legally recognized manner, solidifying ownership. The process often serves as a transition from public land to private ownership, thus playing a critical role in land distribution and ownership rights.

The distinction of a patent as a sovereign grant is significant, as it implies the involvement of the government in the process, making it a formal legal document that establishes and recognizes the ownership rights of the grantee. This is foundational in real estate, as it ensures clarity in property ownership and the rights of the owner.