Property Ownership
What is the final step in the Delaware real estate closing process that legally transfers ownership?
AThe buyer signing the mortgage documents
BThe recording of the deed in the county recorder of deeds office — until the deed is recorded, the transfer is not complete and the buyer's interest is not protected against subsequent purchasers or creditors✓ Correct
CThe seller signing the deed and handing it to the buyer
DThe wire transfer of funds to the seller's account
Explanation
In Delaware, the recording of the deed in the county recorder of deeds office (New Castle, Kent, or Sussex County) is the final step that provides legal protection and public notice of the ownership transfer. Until recording, the buyer has only equitable title and their interest could be defeated by a subsequent good-faith purchaser who records first. Delaware's race-notice recording act rewards prompt recording.
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