The signing of the deed is a critical step during an Illinois real estate closing process. Nevertheless, the process is not over once the seller signs the deed. Several other procedures need to be carried out for the buyer to ascertain that the transfer of the property has been correctly recorded.
Knowing what happens after the deed is signed in Illinois allows buyers to understand the procedures that should be followed after the closing process.
It will help prevent any potential delay in the process of recording the ownership of the property.
What Happens Immediately After the Deed Is Signed?
Once the seller signs the deed, the closing team checks the document to make sure it is complete and ready for recording.
The Deed Is Notarised
In a typical Illinois property sale, the seller signs the deed before a notary public. The notary verifies the signer’s identity and completes the required acknowledgment.
This step helps confirm that the signature is genuine and that the document meets the applicable recording requirements.
If the deed contains an error or is missing required information, it may need to be corrected before submission.
The Deed Is Delivered to the Buyer
Signing and delivering a deed are separate steps. For a deed to transfer ownership, it generally must be delivered with the seller’s intent to transfer the property and accepted by the buyer.
At a typical closing, the deed is handed over to the buyer’s attorney or title company for processing and recording.
The buyer should keep copies of the closing documents and follow up on the recording process.
How Is the Signed Deed Recorded in Illinois?
After the deed is signed and prepared, it is submitted to the recorder’s office in the county where the property is located.
For example, a property in Elgin is generally recorded with the Kane County Recorder.
The recording process usually involves the following steps:
- The closing team checks the deed and supporting documents.
- Required transfer declarations and tax information are submitted.
- Applicable recording fees and transfer taxes are paid.
- The county recorder reviews and records the deed.
- The recorded document receives identifying information, such as a document number or recording details.
Illinois generally requires deeds to be recorded in the county where the property is located.
Recording also gives public notice of the transfer. It helps protect the buyer’s interest against certain later claims involving people who acquire interests in the property without notice of the earlier transfer.
What Is the Illinois Real Estate Transfer Declaration?
The Illinois Real Estate Transfer Declaration, commonly known as Form PTAX-203, is an important document in many property transfers.
It provides information about the property and the transaction, including the sale price and details about the parties.
The form is generally submitted with the deed unless the transfer qualifies for an applicable exemption.
Buyers and sellers should make sure the required information is complete and accurate. Missing documents or incorrect details may delay recording.
What Happens After the County Records the Deed?
Once the county recorder accepts and records the deed, the public property records reflect the transfer.
However, buyers should still take a few steps to make sure their records are complete.
Obtain a Copy of the Recorded Deed
Ask your closing attorney or title company for a copy of the recorded deed.
Check the document for the correct buyer’s name, property address, legal description, and ownership details.
Also keep the recording information in a safe place. You may need it when refinancing, selling, or transferring the property in the future.
Check the Property Tax Mailing Information
After closing, make sure the correct mailing address is listed for future property tax bills and notices.
The buyer should also check the property’s tax records to confirm that the ownership information is updated when the county’s records reflect the transfer.
Do not assume that every county updates its records immediately after closing.
Keep Your Title Insurance Documents
The buyer should also keep the owner’s title insurance policy and related closing documents.
Title insurance may protect against certain covered losses caused by title problems. The policy is separate from the recorded deed, so both documents serve different purposes.
Keep them together with your other important property records.
How Long Does It Take to Record a Deed in Illinois?
The recording time depends on the county recorder’s workload, the submission method, and whether the documents meet the required standards.
Some deeds may be recorded quickly, while others may take longer if the county needs additional information or corrections.
If recording is delayed, contact the closing attorney or title company for an update.
A buyer should not assume that the deed has been recorded simply because the closing has finished. Ask for confirmation and keep a copy of the recorded document.
What If the Deed Is Rejected by the County Recorder?
A county recorder may reject a deed if it does not meet the applicable recording requirements.
Common reasons include:
- Missing signatures or notarisation.
- Incorrect or incomplete legal descriptions.
- Missing transfer declarations.
- Unpaid recording fees or applicable transfer taxes.
- Documents that do not meet formatting requirements.
If the recorder rejects the deed, the closing team may need to correct the issue and submit it again.
Buyers should ask what caused the rejection and how long the correction may take. A real estate attorney can help review the problem and arrange the necessary changes.
Why Is Legal Help Important After Signing a Deed?
The period after signing is important because the deed still needs to be handled correctly. A mistake in the recording process can create delays or uncertainty in the public records.
A deed preparation lawyer in Illinois can help ensure that the document is properly completed, delivered, and submitted for recording. Legal guidance can also help address rejected documents, incorrect property descriptions, and other recording concerns.
Buyers should also understand that receiving a recorded deed does not replace the need to keep their closing and title insurance documents.
Complete Your Property Transfer with Confidence at EJR Law Office
A signed deed is an important milestone, but the steps that follow matter just as much. EJR Law Office helps Illinois property buyers and sellers with deed-related legal matters, including document review, title concerns, and real estate closing support. Whether you are completing a home purchase or need help understanding the recording process, our team can guide you through the legal details and help protect your property interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does signing a deed mean I officially own the property?
Signing alone is not always enough. A deed generally requires delivery with the intent to transfer ownership and acceptance by the buyer.
- Where is a deed recorded in Illinois?
It is generally recorded with the recorder’s office in the county where the property is located.
- Will I receive a copy of my recorded deed?
You can request a copy from your closing attorney, title company, or the county recorder’s office.
- Can a county reject a signed deed?
Yes. Missing information, incorrect details, or recording requirement issues may result in rejection.
- Do I need to keep my recorded deed?
Yes. Keep it with your title insurance policy and other closing documents for future reference.
