Whose signature is required on a deed to ensure its validity?

A deed is a legal document used to transfer ownership of real property from one party to another. For a deed to be valid and legally enforceable, it must be signed by the grantor, who is the individual or entity transferring their interest in the property. This signature is essential because it demonstrates the grantor's intention to convey the property and serves as a formal acknowledgment of the transaction.

In addition to the grantor's signature, other parties may play significant roles in the deed process, such as the buyer, who may have an interest in the transaction but is not required to sign the deed for its validity. Witnesses may be present during the signing of the deed to attest to the execution, but their signatures are not necessary for the deed itself to be valid, making their role supportive rather than essential. The notary public, while often involved in notarizing the document to confirm the identity of the signer and the authenticity of the signature, does not sign the deed itself as a requirement for its validity.

Thus, the grantor’s signature is the critical element that validates the deed, ensuring it meets the legal requirements for the transfer of property ownership.