73. In most states, for a deed to be recorded, it must be in writing and
Answer: C
A deed must be in writing and acknowledged to be recorded in most states.
For a deed to be validly recorded in most states, it is essential that it is in writing and acknowledged. Acknowledgment refers to the formal declaration before a notary or authorized official that the signing party is indeed who they claim to be, ensuring the authenticity of the document.
A) signed by the buyer.
While a deed must be signed by the appropriate parties, including the seller, the requirement specifically for recording is not contingent on the buyer's signature. Therefore, this option is incorrect as it does not encompass the acknowledgment requirement necessary for recording.
B) include the sales price.
Including the sales price in a deed is not a requirement for its validity or recordability in most states. This detail may be relevant for taxation purposes or personal records but does not affect the deed's ability to be recorded. Thus, this option is incorrect.
C) acknowledged.
This option is correct, as acknowledgment is a crucial step for a deed to be recorded. It ensures that the signing parties are authentic and that the deed complies with legal standards, allowing for proper public notice of the property transaction.
D) free of all liens.
A deed can still be recorded even if the property is subject to liens. The existence of liens does not prevent a deed from being recorded; it merely affects the property’s title status. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
Conclusion
Acknowledgment is a fundamental requirement for a deed to be recorded in most states, as it validates the authenticity of the document. Other options, while they may touch upon aspects related to deeds, do not address the specific legal requirement of acknowledgment needed for recording. Thus, option C stands out as the only correct answer.