HOW TO RECORD A LAND CONTRACT

[Tereak Sims]

how do i record a land contract?  Is it recorded when i take it to the title company or do i have to get it notarized? 

I live in grand rapids mi. 

[Mark Krier]

Hi Tereak, 

The land contract is official once it's recorded with the county, and it will be required to be notarized. 

Check with the local municipality too where the property is located... I know for Grand Rapids you need to also complete a property transfer affadavit form and file it with Grand Rapids city within 45 days of executing the land contract. Google "property transfer affadavit Michigan" and you'll find the form. If you don't mind paying something like a $165 doc prep fee and maybe another $200 for a closing fee then you can go to a title company and have them write the contract for you and help with the whole process.  

I've done land contracts both ways (on my own going to the county/city offices myself, and also through a title company with them handling it all) and I personally think it's worth it going through the title company. Especially if buyer and seller don't know each other very well because it provides some legitimacy to the whole process.

If you're looking to do it on your own, and if you're a member of RPOA, I know their website has template forms and resources to help you. 

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Good luck.