Which document must be recorded to provide official proof of ownership?

To establish official proof of ownership in real estate, the executed deed is the key document that must be recorded. An executed deed is a legal document that signifies the transfer of ownership of property from one party to another. Once recorded in the appropriate county office, it becomes a matter of public record, indicating who the rightful owner of the property is. This public nature of the recording provides notice to all parties and protects the interests of the new owner against claims by others.

Other documents, such as unrecorded deeds, do not provide public proof of ownership since they have not been filed with the county, leaving ownership rights ambiguous. A lease agreement is primarily a contract granting temporary rights to use the property but does not confer ownership. Similarly, a notarized will may express intent regarding property transfer upon death but does not serve as proof of ownership itself until it is executed as a deed and recorded, if applicable. Thus, the executed deed is the essential document for officially establishing ownership.