Contracts & Paperwork

Contracts & Paperwork: Quick Tips

Do:✔ Keep copies of all signed documents✔ Read every document carefully✔ Complete disclosures honestly✔ Meet contract deadlines✔ Seek professional guidance when neededDon't:✘ Sign ...

How Do Buyers Submit Offers?

Buyers may submit offers in several ways depending on how they are represented and how you are marketing your property.Offers are typically submitted as a written purchase agreemen ...

Essential Documents Needed to Sell Your Home

Keeping your paperwork organized can help prevent delays.Documents You May Need:Property deedMortgage informationTax recordsHOA documentsProperty disclosuresUtility informationRepa ...

What Contracts Do I Need to Sell My Home?

The exact paperwork required depends on your state and the specifics of your transaction. However, most home sales include several common documents.Common Documents May Include:Pur ...

Where Can I Get State-Specific Forms?

Real estate forms vary by state and are often updated periodically.Sources for State-Specific Forms May Include:Real estate attorneysTitle companiesEscrow companiesLocal real estat ...

What Is a Purchase Agreement?

A purchase agreement is the contract that outlines the terms and conditions of the sale between the buyer and seller.A Purchase Agreement Typically Includes:Purchase priceEarnest m ...

What Is Earnest Money and How Is It Handled?

Earnest money is a deposit submitted by the buyer to demonstrate serious intent to purchase the property.Earnest Money Is Typically:Held by a title companyHeld by an escrow company ...

Common Contract Contingencies Explained

Financing ContingencyProtects buyers if financing cannot be obtained.Inspection ContingencyAllows buyers to evaluate the property's condition.Appraisal ContingencyProtects buyers i ...

What Is an Amendment to a Contract?

An amendment is a written change to an existing contract.Amendments Are Commonly Used For:Extending deadlinesChanging the closing dateAdjusting purchase priceModifying repair agree ...

What Contingencies Should I Expect?

Contingencies are conditions that must be met before a sale can close.Common Contingencies Include:Financing ContingencyAllows the buyer time to secure financing.Inspection Conting ...

What Disclosures Are Required?

Most states require sellers to disclose known material facts about the property.Common Disclosure Topics Include:Roof conditionWater damagePlumbing issuesElectrical problemsFoundat ...

When Should I Complete My Seller Disclosures?

In most transactions, disclosures should be completed as early as possible.Benefits of Early Disclosure:Builds buyer confidenceReduces surprises during the transactionHelps avoid d ...

State Disclosure Requirements Explained

Disclosure requirements vary significantly across the country.Some States May Require Disclosure Of:Structural defectsWater intrusionEnvironmental hazardsPast insurance claimsPrope ...

Do I Need a Real Estate Attorney?

Whether an attorney is required depends on your state and personal comfort level.Many Sellers Consult an Attorney For:Contract reviewDisclosure questionsLegal guidanceComplex trans ...

Understanding Real Estate Contracts

Real estate contracts define the rights and responsibilities of both buyers and sellers.Contracts Commonly Address:Purchase priceDeadlinesFinancingProperty conditionClosing require ...