What is required for a contract for the sale of real estate to be enforceable in Maryland?

In Maryland, for a contract for the sale of real estate to be enforceable, it must be in writing and signed by the parties involved. This requirement stems from the Statute of Frauds, which mandates that certain contracts, including those for the sale of land, must be documented in writing to be legally binding. The written contract must clearly outline the terms of the agreement and be signed by both the seller and the buyer, ensuring that there is mutual consent and clarity regarding the transaction.

The options suggesting that the contract can be verbal or that it requires witnessing or registration do not align with the legal criteria established in Maryland. Verbal contracts for real estate are generally unenforceable due to the Statute of Frauds. While witnessing and registration may serve other legal purposes or provide additional protections, they are not mandated for the basic enforceability of a real estate sale contract itself in this context. Therefore, the requirement for the agreement to be in writing and signed is the cornerstone of what makes such contracts enforceable in the state.