In real estate, what is a covenant?

A covenant in real estate specifically refers to a promise made within a deed or lease regarding how the property will be used or maintained. This promise may involve obligations to perform certain actions or to refrain from certain activities related to the property. For example, a property owner may covenant to maintain a garden or may restrict activities such as the construction of fences or certain types of buildings on the premises.

While a covenant can involve legal agreements and restrictions on property use, its core aspect is the promise that is made by one party to another regarding specific actions or behaviors related to the property. This definition aligns closely with the fundamental nature of covenants in real estate transactions, emphasizing their role as commitments that are expected to be upheld by the parties involved.

In contrast, other answers capture aspects of property law but do not specifically encompass the broader meaning of a covenant in the way that the correct option does.