What legal document signifies ownership of property?

The legal document that signifies ownership of property is the title certificate. A title certificate provides formal proof that an individual or entity legally owns a particular property. It encapsulates information related to the property, including its legal description, the name of the owner, and any liens or encumbrances that may be attached to it. When ownership of the property changes hands, a new title certificate is issued to reflect the new owner.

In contrast, a lease agreement is a contract that allows one party to use another party's property for a specific duration, which does not confer ownership. A bill of sale serves as evidence of a transaction that transfers ownership of personal property but is not typically associated with real estate. A purchase agreement outlines the terms under which a property will be sold, but it does not itself signify ownership; ownership is reflected by the title certificate issued once the transaction is completed.