Facts: Mr. Smith gives Ms Jones a check for $5000 as option to purchase her land located in Napa Valley - both parties sign the option to buy contract - Ms Jones accepts the check for $5000 as an option to buy her land. Ms Jones agreed to sell to Mr. Smith her 2 acre commercial lot for $300,000. Mr. Smith has 90 days to exercise his option to purchase Ms Jones property at her asking price of $300,000.

QUESTION: In order to protect his interest / option to buy Ms. Jones property - what steps would you recommend Mr. Smith to take after entering into the written option contract with Ms. Jones?