Property Ownership

Under Massachusetts Chapter 183, a deed must be acknowledged (notarized) to be:

AValid between the parties
BEligible for recording at the Registry of Deeds✓ Correct
CEnforceable in court
DEffective to transfer title

Explanation

A deed in Massachusetts must be acknowledged (notarized before a notary public or justice of the peace) to be eligible for recording at the Registry of Deeds. A deed that is not acknowledged is still valid between the parties but cannot be recorded, leaving the grantee at risk for subsequent claims.

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