According to the statute of frauds, contracts must be:

The correct option highlights that, under the statute of frauds, contracts must be written to be enforceable. This legal principle serves to prevent misunderstandings and fraudulent claims in significant transactions. Particularly in real estate, where agreements often involve substantial monetary amounts and detailed specifications, having a written contract provides a clear record of the terms agreed upon by all parties involved.

Written contracts ensure that there is tangible evidence of the parties' intentions and obligations, which can be referenced in case of disputes. Certain types of contracts, particularly those involving the sale of real property or leases for longer than one year, are specifically required by this statute to be in writing to be legally binding. This requirement underscores the importance of documentation in maintaining orderly and fair transactions in real estate dealings.