Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) Practice Exam

What does the Statute of Frauds indicate about land transactions?

1. Solely verbal transfers are permitted

2. Written contracts are necessary for valid transfer

3. A father may transfer title without restrictions

4. Fraud is involved in all land ownership

The correct answer is: Written contracts are necessary for valid transfer

The Statute of Frauds is a legal principle that requires certain contracts to be in writing in order to be enforceable. In the context of land transactions, this statute mandates that any agreement for the sale or transfer of real property must be documented in writing. This requirement helps to provide clarity and prevent disputes regarding the terms of the transaction, ensuring that there is a tangible proof of the agreement between the parties involved. Written contracts reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings or fraud because they require all details of the agreement to be explicitly stated. Therefore, if a land transaction is not documented in writing, it may not be legally recognized or upheld in a court of law. This requirement is fundamental in real estate law and is aimed at protecting all parties engaged in such transactions.