How Do I Cancel the Recording of a Contract for Deed?
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Answer:
Typically, filing of a contract for deed will not change the ownership records for the property until the payments are complete and a new deed is executed, since a contract for deed alone doesn't change ownership. A contract for deed, or land contract, is often used as an alternative means of financing the purchase price of property. The buyer does not receive an actual deed until payments are made under the terms of the contract for deed agreement. Until the buyer receives a deed, ownership isn't transferred and the property is subject to being foreclosed on if the mortgagee/owner defaults on the mortgage. The responsibility for payment for the property is a separate issue from the ownership of the property.
A quiet title or trespass to try title action is the method of determining title to lands. In a quiet title action, it is possible to ask the court to issue an injunction to force another to do or refrain from doing an act. An injunction is an equitable remedy that the court may order when money damages will be inadequate to remedy the harm suffered. The court may also order records to be corrected to reflect true ownership of property. If the defendant doesn't appear or file an answer to the complaint, a default judgment may be entered in the plaintiff's favor.