How exactly do I record an option or sales agreement with the county?

Question

How exactly do I record an option or sales agreement with the county? My understanding is that this needs to be done to protect my interest should the seller decide to sell the property to someone else after s/he has agreed to sell the property to me. Do I get the contract notarized than go down to the county court house or can I just take the signed agreement as is and file it that way? I’m in Chicago. If this is something that is not necessary please let me know.

David Perez · Answer

I'd like to thank both Jay and Joe for taking the time to respond to my question. I really appreciate all of your comments and advice. I'm sorry for the late response. I'm wholesaling part time right now. That said I can use all the help I can get. I tried REI back in 2011. Unfortunately for me the college's I chose to follow were no match to those I'm finding on BP.

Account Closed · Answer

Like Jay said you can record anything you want but will it stand up in court and don't think it will fly if you record an open-end sales agreement put a closed date and let the seller know you will record it.

Joe Gore

Jay Hinrichs · Answer

@David Perez

My father who taught me everything real estate related.. would always say you can record the star spangled banner if you wish.

Just take your document to the recorders office and record. it.. now you may have to paginate it a certain way.. but other than that anyone can record any doc you want.

How exactly do I record an option or sales agreement with the county?

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