Can an oral contract for the sale of real estate be enforced?

For the sale of real estate, contracts must typically be in writing to be considered enforceable under the Statute of Frauds, which is a legal doctrine designed to prevent fraud and perjury in certain cases. This statute requires that certain types of contracts, including those related to the sale of real estate, be documented in writing and signed by the parties involved.

The written requirement is crucial because real estate transactions often involve substantial financial commitments and long-term obligations, which necessitate clear evidence of the agreements made. The writing provides a record of the terms agreed upon and helps to avoid disputes regarding oral agreements, which can be more challenging to prove in court.

While there may be certain situations where verbal agreements can have enforceability, they typically do not hold up in the context of real estate transactions. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the necessity of a written contract for the sale of real estate to ensure its legality and enforceability.