What is a deed in real estate?

A deed in real estate is a legal document that facilitates the transfer of title or ownership of a property from one party to another. This document contains essential information such as the names of the parties involved, a description of the property, and the signatures of the parties involved in the transaction. The deed serves as proof of ownership and is typically filed with the appropriate governmental authority to provide public notice of the change in ownership.

In contrast to the other options, a contract to buy a property outlines the terms of the sale but does not itself transfer ownership. A document that outlines property taxes provides information regarding the financial obligations associated with the property but does not pertain to the title. A survey of property boundaries is a physical description of the land's dimensions and borders, primarily used for delineation rather than transfer of ownership. Thus, the correct choice highlights the specific legal function that a deed serves within real estate transactions.