Selling a home in Chicago involves more paperwork than many sellers expect, especially for condos and multi unit properties. Being organized and prepared before your home hits the market can reduce delays, strengthen buyer confidence, and make the entire transaction smoother from listing to closing.

This guide outlines the key documents Chicago sellers should gather, why they matter, and how preparing them early can improve your sale.

Why Paperwork Matters in a Chicago Home Sale

Chicago uses an attorney driven transaction process, which means documents are reviewed carefully during negotiation and attorney review. Missing or incomplete paperwork can:

• Slow down negotiations

• Delay attorney approval

• Create buyer uncertainty

• Lead to last minute concessions

• Put deals at risk

Having documents ready early allows your agent and attorney to respond quickly and keeps momentum strong once an offer is accepted.

Core Documents Every Chicago Seller Needs

These documents apply to nearly all residential sales in the city.

Seller disclosures

Illinois requires sellers to complete a Residential Real Property Disclosure Report. This form outlines what you know about the condition of the property, including mechanical systems, water issues, and structural concerns.

Accuracy matters. Disclosures protect both the seller and the buyer and should be completed honestly.

Lead based paint disclosure

If your home was built before 1978, federal law requires a lead based paint disclosure. Buyers must also receive the EPA pamphlet explaining lead paint risks.

Many Chicago homes fall into this category, especially in Logan Square, Bucktown, and Andersonville.

Survey

A survey shows property boundaries, lot lines, easements, and improvements. While buyers often order a new survey, having a recent one can speed up the process and clarify boundary questions early.

Mortgage and lien information

You will need information on:

• Existing mortgage balances

• Home equity loans

• Lines of credit

• Any recorded liens

This information helps attorneys calculate payoff amounts and ensures a clean title transfer.

Additional Documents for Condo Sellers

Condos require more documentation than single family homes.

Condo association documents

Buyers typically review:

• Declaration and bylaws

• Rules and regulations

• Budget

• Financial statements

• Meeting minutes

• Insurance certificates

Strong association financials increase buyer confidence. Gathering these documents early prevents delays once under contract.

Paid assessment letter

This document confirms whether there are any outstanding assessments owed by the seller. It is often required prior to closing.

Right of first refusal documentation

Some associations require notice of sale and provide a right of first refusal. Your agent and attorney will help manage this process, but knowing whether it applies is important.

Documents for Multi Unit and Two Flat Properties

If you are selling a two flat or three flat, buyers will expect additional information.

Lease agreements

Provide copies of:

• Current leases

• Security deposit records

• Rental payment history

Clear documentation helps buyers understand income and occupancy.

Utility and expense records

Buyers may request:

• Utility bills

• Maintenance costs

• Property tax information

This is especially important for investor buyers.

Optional but Helpful Documents

These documents are not always required, but they can strengthen your position.

Pre listing inspection report

Some sellers choose to complete an inspection before listing. This can:

• Identify issues early

• Reduce surprises during negotiation

• Build buyer trust

• Speed up the inspection phase

Repair and improvement records

Providing receipts or summaries of recent updates helps buyers understand how the home has been maintained.

Warranties and manuals

Appliance warranties and system manuals are helpful during closing and move in.

When Should You Gather These Documents?

Ideally, paperwork should be collected before your home goes live on the market. Early preparation allows:

• Faster response to offers

• Smoother attorney review

• Shorter timelines to closing

• Fewer last minute issues

A well prepared seller appears organized and confident, which buyers appreciate.

Final Thoughts

Selling a home in Chicago requires more than good pricing and strong marketing. Proper documentation plays a critical role in keeping your transaction on track. Whether you are selling a condo in Wicker Park, a single family home in Lincoln Park, or a two flat in Logan Square, having the right paperwork ready can save time, reduce stress, and protect your sale.

Working with an experienced local agent helps ensure nothing is overlooked and that each step is handled correctly.

Contact Camille

If you are thinking about selling your home and want expert, data driven guidance for the Chicago market, contact Camille anytime at 773.232.5282 or [email protected].