Real Property

The newsletter of the ISBA’s Section on Real Estate Law

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2026 Articles

2025 Joint Midyear Meeting Photos February 2026 The Illinois State Bar Association and the Illinois Judges Association proudly co-hosted the 2025 Joint Midyear Meeting on December 11–12 at the JW Marriott Chicago, bringing members of the legal community together for two days of connection and collaboration.
Landlord Not Entitled To Additional Insurance Proceeds for Property Damage or Lost Rental Income Resulting From Break-in and Vandalism at Three-Unit Residential Building By Genevieve M. Daniels February 2026 A summary of Bunjo v. State Farm Fire & Casualty Co., a First District case that discussed whether an owner of a three-story, three-unit residential property was covered under a homeowners insurance policy that covered losses as a result of vandalism and damages due to loss of use. Based on the facts of the case, the First District found State Farm was entitled to judgment as a matter of law and the homeowners insurance policy did not cover the alleged loss. 
The New Receivership Act: Claims Filing, Automatic Stays, and Receivership Sales of Real Estate By Paul Peterson January 2026 The new Illinois Receivership Act brings a host of changes to receiverships in Illinois under certain circumstances. One of the purposes of the Act is to facilitate sales that can bring in more proceeds than would otherwise be obtained through a mortgage foreclosure, creating the necessity for all real estate practitioners to consider. 
NOTE January 2026 Quick summaries of new laws for 2026 that may impact the practice of real estate law. 
Oil and Gas Law Ownership Rights and Surface Issues By David M. Foreman February 2026 Historically, an owner of real estate, in fee simple absolute, was thought to own a pie shaped cubit, extending from the center of the Earth, all the way up to the heavens. This traditional rule of ownership is a gross over simplification which, as we shall see, does not truly apply in the case of oil and gas.
REMINDER! February 2026 The CLE deadline for last names A-M is fast approaching--utilize your free CLE credits included in your ISBA membership! 
Urgent Notice About the New “Summary of Rights for Safer Homes Act” Requirements By Nicky Sonntag January 2026 A look at important changes for Illinois landlords for all new and renewals of residential leases and a description of the Safe Homes Act.