A contract for deed is a purchase contract for real estate. A Minnesota Contract for Deed generally refers to an executory contract for the purchase and sale of Minnesota real estate.You agree to buy the home from the seller over time. Generally, in Minnesota, a contract for the sale of real estate must be in writing to be enforceable. This section provides policies that apply to promissory notes, contracts for deed and other property agreements. A contract for deed is an alternative financing agreement in which the seller finances the sale of the property rather than a lender. The law doesn't enforce agreements to buy a house unless they are in writing! Deeds (Including Warranty Deeds and Quitclaim Deeds), Mortgages, Contracts for Deed, Liens and more MN Dept. A contract for deed is a conditional sales contract for the purchase of real property. It is similar to a mortgage; however: