N.Y. Real Property Law § 243: Grant of fee or freehold

§ 243. Grant of fee or freehold. A grant in fee or of a freehold

estate, must be subscribed by the person from whom the estate or

interest conveyed is intended to pass, or by his lawful agent thereunto

authorized in writing. If not duly acknowledged before its delivery,

according to the provisions of this chapter, its execution and delivery

must be attested by at least one witness, or, if not so attested, it

does not take effect as against a subsequent purchaser or incumbrancer

until so acknowledged.