Real estate law deals with real estate, or property, which encompasses anything permanently affixed to land, such as buildings, fences, light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, or other items that would be personal property if not attached.

Real estate transactions are governed by a large number of federal statutes and state laws. These laws can differ drastically from state to state. The Statute of Frauds - a contract term - requires that all contracts for the sale of property be in writing.