N.Y. Real Prop. Acts. Law § 240

§ 240. Definitions and use of terms. 1. The term "heirs," or other\nwords of inheritance, are not requisite to create or convey an estate in\nfee.\n 2. The term "conveyance," as used in this article, includes every\ninstrument, in writing, except a will, by which any estate or interest\nin real property is created, transferred, assigned or surrendered.\n 3. Every instrument creating, transferring, assigning or surrendering\nan estate or interest in real property must be construed according to\nthe intent of the parties, so far as such intent can be gathered from\nthe whole instrument, and is consistent with the rules of law.\n 4. The terms "estate" and "interest in real property" include every\nsuch estate and interest, freehold or chattel, legal or equitable,\npresent or future, vested or contingent.\n