Under Illinois law, a real estate contract must include:

This question tests understanding of the Statute of Frauds, a fundamental principle in real estate transactions that prevents disputes over important agreements. The Statute of Frauds requires certain contracts to be in writing to be enforceable. In real estate practice, this concept is crucial because it protects both buyers and sellers from misunderstandings or false claims about significant financial commitments. The question specifically focuses on Illinois law, which aligns with most states in requiring written contracts. The core concept is that real estate contracts must be written and include essential terms to be valid. The correct answer (C) is the only option that satisfies both requirements of being written and containing essential terms. This question might seem straightforward, but students often confuse the Statute of Frauds requirements with other formalities like witnesses or notarization. Understanding this concept connects to broader knowledge about contract formation, agency relationships, and the legal framework that governs real estate transactions.