Why must contracts for the sale of real estate generally be in writing to be enforceable?

The Statute of Frauds, adopted in some form in every state, requires that certain contracts — including those for the sale or transfer of an interest in real property — be in writing and signed by the party to be charged in order to be enforceable in court. This protects against fraudulent claims based on alleged oral agreements about land. Leases longer than a specified term (often one year) also generally must be written. An oral agreement to sell land is usually unenforceable even if both parties admit it existed. Because nearly every real estate transaction depends on a written, signed contract, the Statute of Frauds is essential contract-law content.