Ex Refuses To Sign Over The Home After A Breakup

State: IL

About 3 years ago, my ex and I bought a home together. We are both co-owners of the home. However, he has never made a single mortgage payment himself. All the payments have been paid solely by me, coming out of my own bank account. The only payment that he's made during this time were some bills here and there. I have bank statements that can prove all this.

We broke up recently. We were never married. At first it seemed like he was fine with it and would be cooperative. However, as time has passed, he has been extremely difficult to work with. He is requesting I sell the home and to provide him part of the proceeds from selling the home. He is currently not living in the house with me but still has full access.

I would like to resolve this without involving lawyers if possible but if it comes to that, will it be easy for me to assume full ownership of the home/mortgage as I do have proof that it's only been me making mortgage payments. I have thought about offering a lesser amount (he's asked for upwards of $20k in order for him to agree to be released from the mortgage). At this point I just want to move past this. I also would want to avoid refinancing if possible as my interest rates on the current mortgage are much lower than what I would get now. It seems the best option may be to offer a buyout but I cannot afford to pay upwards of $20k right now nor would I wish to sell the home. I'm not sure what the best route is.