Illinois Real Estate Practice Exam

When is title to property transferred by a deed?

1. After notarization

2. Upon signing by the grantor

3. Once filed with the county

4. Upon delivery and acceptance by the grantee

The correct answer is: Upon delivery and acceptance by the grantee

The correct answer is that title to property is transferred by a deed upon delivery and acceptance by the grantee. This principle is rooted in the legal concept that transfer of ownership occurs when the grantor has effectively given the deed to the grantee, and the grantee has accepted it. When a deed is delivered, it signifies that the grantor intends to relinquish control and ownership of the property. Acceptance by the grantee is equally important, as it demonstrates that the grantee agrees to take ownership of the property. Only when both of these conditions are met does the transfer of title occur. While notarization, signing, and filing with the county are important steps in the process of executing and officially recording a deed, they do not singularly determine the moment of title transfer. Notarization provides authentication, signing expresses intent, and filing serves to provide public notice, but the actual transfer hinges on the delivery and acceptance of the deed.