Typical Provisions in a Seller’s Real Estate Sales Contract

Given the fact that the sale and purchase of real property can be a complicated and lengthy process, there are no single provisions in a real estate purchase contract that is the most important provision of the contract for sale. Rather the contract as a whole with all its provisions is important for the seller as well as the buyer.

That said, the seller will want to be sure that the contract specifies:

(1) The purchase price,

(2) Whether or not the buyer will need to obtain a loan to buy the property,

(3) How much the deposit will be for the purchase (assuming a deposit is required), and if the seller is entitled to damages (usually the deposit) if the buyer does not fulfill his or her end of the contract,

(4) The slated date for the close of escrow where legal title is then transferred to the buyer from the seller,

(5) The name and location of the escrow company, and

(6) Who will pay what aspects for the “closing costs” (escrow fees, title insurance, recording fees and the like) and the broker’s commission (when is it payable: on signing the contract or upon close of escrow?).

Contingency requirements in a real estate contract

Other significant features for the seller are whether or not the buyer will have any contingency requirements to close the sale and will be taken care of in a reasonable amount of time. A contingency in a written contract is a provision allowing the buyer to possibly avoid buying the property after the agreement is entered into with the seller.

Typical contingency requirements are the buyer’s ability to inspect the property with third party experts such as a licensed contractors, a licensed home inspector or a licensed pest inspector to make sure that the structure’s integrity is sound. Another common contingency is financing: the buyer is to get written confirmation that he or she is guaranteed a loan for a set amount at a certain interest rate for a certain period of time.

As a general rule, sellers prefer no contingencies for the sale of the property and if there are contingencies, the time period to waive the contingency ordinarily is as short as possible from the seller’s side, so as to lock the buyer into the sale and have escrow close sooner rather than later.

Advisories in purchase contract

Sellers generally prefer written advisories (warnings) in the purchase contract to the buyer about the need to use their own due diligence to inspect the property thoroughly before escrow is closed, so that they have no surprises as to the home’s condition after close. In many circumstances, the seller of the property may not be aware of possible water intrusion issues, termites or other problems with the home that are not readily visible.

Attorney’s fee clauses in real estate contract

Opinions vary as to whether it is in the seller’s best interest to have an “attorney’s fee provision” in the purchase agreement.  The provision allows attorney’s fees to the prevailing party when there is a dispute betwen the buyer and seller after the close of escrow. An “attorney’s fee clause” may be drafted in this manner:  “In the event of any dispuite between the buyer or seller arising out of this agreement, the prevailing party to any legal proceeding would be entitled to his or her reasonable attorney’s fees from the other party.”

Sentiment is that in the event of a sale of real property where escrow closes, the person most likely to file suit would be the buyer. Accordingly, an “attorney’s fee clause” would be one factor by the buyer to file suit. Unfortunately, the “attorney’s fee clause” in a real estate contract is a factor in prolonging many lawsuits by creating a lot of unnecessary expenses for the buyer and the seller for the fees each are obligated to pay their attorney. It is recommended that the seller not have an “attorney’s fee provision” in the real estate purchase contract.

Mediation of disputes

However, important provisions for resolving any dispute short of trial such as a mediation provision (means to resolve by way of a settlement conference) are important and helpful in resolving an issue quickly and without much expense.

Pre-printed real estate contracts

Many professional real estate associations have over the years created and modified pre-printed real estate contracts that contain many of the important provisions that a seller will want in a real estate contract to protect his or her interests. It is suggested that such agreements be considered as the format for any real estate transaction in that they have been proven to withstand the test of time.

Case Studies: Real Estate Sales Contracts

Case Study 1: The Importance of Purchase Price

Sarah is selling her house to Mark. They enter into a real estate sales contract, and Sarah emphasizes the importance of clearly specifying the purchase price. By agreeing on a purchase price of $300,000, both parties have a clear understanding of the financial terms of the transaction. This clarity minimizes the risk of disputes or misunderstandings, ensuring a smooth and transparent sale.

Case Study 2: Managing Contingencies in a Real Estate Contract

Emily is selling her condo to Michael. Michael wants to ensure the property’s condition before finalizing the purchase. They negotiate and agree on a contingency that allows Michael to hire a licensed home inspector. Within a specific time frame, Michael completes the inspection, finding no major issues. Satisfied with the results, the contingency is waived, and the sale proceeds smoothly, addressing the buyer’s concerns while protecting the seller’s interests.

Case Study 3: Advisories to Protect Sellers and Buyers

John is selling his suburban house to Lisa. To avoid potential post-sale surprises, John includes written advisories in the purchase contract. These advisories inform Lisa about the importance of conducting a thorough property inspection and obtaining specialized inspections, such as for termites. Lisa follows the advice, hires professionals, and discovers a minor plumbing issue.

With full knowledge of the home’s condition, Lisa proceeds with the purchase, avoiding future disputes and ensuring a transparent transaction.

Case Study 4: Pros and Cons of Attorney’s Fee Clauses

David is selling his commercial property to Samantha. David’s attorney suggests including an “attorney’s fee provision” in the purchase agreement. However, after careful consideration, David decides against it. He understands that such a provision could potentially incentivize the buyer to file lawsuits, prolonging the process and increasing expenses for both parties.

By omitting the provision, David aims to foster a smoother transaction and minimize unnecessary legal disputes.

Case Study 5: Resolving Disputes Through Mediation

James is selling his rural land to Sarah. They include a mediation provision in the purchase contract as a means of resolving any potential disputes. After the sale, a disagreement arises regarding the boundaries of the property. Instead of immediately resorting to legal action, James and Sarah opt for mediation. With the assistance of a neutral mediator, they reach a mutually acceptable resolution, saving time, money, and preserving their relationship.