Creating a private mortgage without title company

[Carlos Gallegos]

I am in the process of lending a person money for renovating an owner occupied home.   The home was recently bought for $50,000 cash and is free and clear.

I am trying to create a note for $15,000.  I am wondering how hard it would be to create a mortgage for this note which in my opinion would reduce the risk .  Based on the low amount of the loan, the owners equity in the home, and the owner's recent closing I do not have any particular need for getting a lenders policy or going through a title company.  I would simply like to create the note and mortgage and  record the mortgage myself at the court house.  

I appreciate any feedback.

C. Gallegos