What describes any claim to or encumbrance on the title to a property which affects transferability?

The term that describes any claim to or encumbrance on the title to a property, which affects transferability, is known as a "cloud." A cloud on title typically refers to any dispute, lien, or other claim that potentially interferes with the clear ownership of a property, thereby impacting its ability to be sold or transferred without complications.

For example, a cloud could arise from a previous ownership dispute, an unpaid mortgage, or liens for unpaid property taxes. The presence of a cloud needs to be resolved before the property can be transferred cleanly to a new owner.

In contrast, the other terms relate to different aspects of property and real estate. "Chattel" refers to movable personal property rather than real estate. "Collusion" involves secret agreements or cooperation between parties to deceive or defraud, which does not pertain directly to property title. "Closing" refers to the final steps in the sale of real estate, where ownership is officially transferred, but it does not define issues related to title encumbrances.