What is required for a deed to be considered valid?

For a deed to be considered valid, it is crucial that it includes the signature of the grantor, who is the person conveying the property. The grantor's signature is the primary requirement that signifies their intention to transfer ownership. This element is essential because it serves as evidence of the grantor's willingness to execute the deed and convey the property to the grantee, thus making it legally binding.

While having the signatures of both parties, witness signatures, and notarization can enhance the credibility of the deed and may be required for certain types of transactions or in specific jurisdictions, they are not universally required for the deed to be valid. The law primarily mandates that the grantor’s signature be present. This means that even a deed that is signed solely by the grantor can be deemed valid provided it meets other statutory requirements, such as being in writing and legally describing the property involved.