Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Illinois
squatting
I am interested in acuiring a peice of rural property that seems to be abandoned. The property cocsists of an abandoned farm house and the fenced in yard. I am trying to get it as cheap as possible, so I am wondering how I can research the status of the property as well as what the laws are regarding squating in Illinois. I know that in some localities there are things as simple as getting the power turned on and paying the bills for several years will allow you to take possesion of a property if it is not contested in a court. Please advise me on this as well as other methods by which I may be able to accuire this property.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: squatting
You are referring to the concept of adverse possession, which is a 20 year period.
Your best bet is to find out who is paying the taxes by going to the Assessors office or Treasures office for your county.
Re: squatting
Your best bet is to purchase it from the owner. What you are referring to is called 'adverse possession'
The general rule is 20 years of open and obvious possession, along with several other requirements, therefore the best method is to go to your county recorder of deed's office and do some research to see who the owner is.
If they haven't been around, you might be able to get a good deal on it.
Good luck
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