Conveyance
Definition and meaning of Conveyance in real estate.
Conveyance is the legal process of transferring the ownership of real property from one party to another, typically accomplished through a written instrument such as a deed, lease, or mortgage. The term represents both the act of transferring property rights and the legal document used to finalize the transaction.
In more detail
A valid conveyance requires a clear description of the property, the signatures of the involved parties, and formal delivery and acceptance of the transfer document. In a standard home sale, the conveyance is completed at closing when the seller signs and delivers the deed to the buyer.
Recording the conveyance document in public land records is a critical step to protect the buyer's ownership claim against future disputes. The term also applies to other transfers, including long-term leases that convey temporary usage rights.
Key facts
| Category | Legal, Titles & Closing |
|---|---|
| Core instrument | Warranty deed, quitclaim deed, or grant deed |
| Key timing | Occurs at the closing of a real estate transaction |
| Location recorded | County recorder or registry of deeds |
During the closing of a residential sale, the signing of the warranty deed constitutes the official conveyance of the home from the seller to the buyer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a deed and a conveyance?
Conveyance is the broad legal process of transferring property ownership, while a deed is the specific physical document used to execute that transfer.
What happens if a conveyance document is not recorded?
If the document is not recorded in public records, the transfer remains valid between the parties, but the new owner is vulnerable to competing claims from third parties who are unaware of the transfer.
Related terms
Sources & references
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