What term describes agreements that influence the value or transfer of property rights?

The term that describes agreements that influence the value or transfer of property rights is "encumbrances." Encumbrances refer to any claim, lien, charge, or liability attached to and binding real property, which can affect its value and the rights of the property owner. This can include mortgages, liens, easements, and other restrictions that may impact how the property can be used or transferred.

Understanding encumbrances is crucial for real estate transactions because they can significantly alter what can be done with the property, the rights of the owner, and the overall marketability of the property. For instance, a mortgage is an encumbrance that allows a lender to claim the property if the borrower defaults on their loan. Similarly, certain easements allow others the right to use a portion of the property for specific purposes, which can also affect the property owner's ability to fully utilize their rights.

The other terms may relate to property and real estate transactions but do not encompass the broad range of agreements that impact property rights as effectively as encumbrances do. Easements specifically refer to the right to use someone else's property for a particular purpose, options are agreements giving one party the right to purchase or lease property under specified conditions, and contracts are legally enforceable agreements