Which of these options contains only the essential elements of a real estate contract?

The correct selection highlights the essential elements necessary for a valid real estate contract: legal purpose, capacity, mutual consent, and being in writing.

Legal purpose ensures that the agreement is for a lawful reason; contracts cannot enforce illegal objectives. Capacity refers to the parties' ability to understand and enter into the contract, typically being of legal age and mentally competent. Mutual consent, often referred to as a "meeting of the minds," signifies that all parties involved agree to the contract's terms. Lastly, real estate contracts must be in writing to be enforceable, as established by the Statute of Frauds. This requirement protects all parties by providing clear, evidence-based documentation of the agreement.

The other options do not encompass all the essential elements required for a valid real estate contract. For instance, some mention elements like notarization or recordation, which, while important in certain contexts, are not foundational to the validity of the contract itself. The focus on mutual consent, legality, consideration, and the need for a written format is what makes the selected answer the most accurate representation of a valid real estate contract's essential elements.