What term refers to a set of private contracts created for the benefit of residents in a specific subdivision?

The term that refers to a set of private contracts created for the benefit of residents in a specific subdivision is deed restrictions. Deed restrictions are provisions in the property deed that limit how the property can be used. They are typically established by developers to maintain a certain aesthetic or character in the community, which can include guidelines on property appearance, the types of structures allowed, and even the conduct of residents. This legal mechanism helps ensure that all property owners in the subdivision adhere to the same standards, fostering a cohesive community environment.

In contrast, zoning ordinances are regulations set by local governments to control land use and development in various areas, and a land use plan is a broader policy document outlining planned developments and land use in a region. Residential contracts generally refer to agreements specific to the sale or rental of residential properties and do not specifically address community standards in the way deed restrictions do. Hence, the specificity and legal grounding of deed restrictions in protecting and enhancing the community's interests make it the correct term for the concept described in the question.