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The purchase agreement is a vitally important document that outlines the provisions, terms and conditions for the transfer of property.
It should be read carefully and any ambiguities should be clarified prior to signing. It is a legally binding contract between the buyer and seller.
The purchase agreement may vary depending on the location. Most real estate agents use a form that has been approved by a state realtors association.
The seller may have a different version that was drawn up by an attorney. It should not be assumed that they are all the same.
Typically, the purchase agreement will include an inspection period. This gives the buyer time to verify the conditions stated on the purchase agreement. Three of the most important stipulations in the contract are listed below.
In most cases, the purchase agreement should be signed by the legal owner of the property.
If there is more than one owner, each owner should sign the agreement. In many states, both parties in a married couple have an interest in a property even if the title is held in one party’s name alone. Therefore, the purchase agreement should be signed by both parties of a married couple.
In the event the property is being sold by a corporation, verify that the person signing the agreement is authorized to commit the corporation to the sale.
There may be instance whereby there is a missing owner on the agreement, or the seller is actually not legally allowed to sell the property because he or she is not on title. That’s where a sound title insurance policy comes in handy. Checking the title will ensure that all sellers are named in the contract before you go through with the deal.
The purchase agreement should list all items that are to convey with the property. “Fixtures” are considered items that are attached to the property.
Legally, they should be included with the sale, but more than a few buyers have been dismayed to find the property stripped of countertops, appliances and window coverings. Any fixtures and personal property that are part of the sale should be included in the purchase agreement.
As an aside, be sure that not only are the listed fixtures still on the property when you take it over, but verify whether or not the seller has also removed all other items from the home. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck with the job and bill for removing these items yourself.
The purchase agreement may contain various stipulations. One should include the right to cancel the contract if zoning prohibits the use of the property as planned.
Zoning ordinances may restrict the use of buildings or land. This may prove to be an obstacle for someone who intended to include a workshop on the property. The buyer should be able to withdraw from the contract if they discover that zoning prohibits the intended use.
For instance, if you bought the property thinking that you would be able to use for a primary residence but find out later that it is zoned for commercial use, you may be left in a precarious position.
If you are looking to buy a home and need a mortgage to finance it, we can help. Sammamish Mortgage is a local, family-owned company based in Bellevue, Washington. We currently lend in all of Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Colorado. Since 1992, we have been helping borrowers secure mortgage programs, and we’d love to help you too. Please contact us if you have mortgage-related questions.
Whether you’re buying a home or ready to refinance, our professionals can help.
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No Obligation and transparency 24/7. Instantly compare live rates and costs from our network of lenders across the country. Real-time accurate rates and closing costs for a variety of loan programs custom to your specific situation.