by Dan Krell
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Have you read your purchase contract or listing agreement? Many people won’t read the documents thoroughly, if they read them at all, and rely on their Realtor’s explanation to help them understand the legal and binding contract to which they are entering. Unfortunately, there is a chance that your Realtor may not understand the documents either and may have given you misleading information.
What was once a simple two page purchase contract is now an often confusing and seemingly endless forty to fifty pages of clauses and addendums. The contract of yesteryear may have been easier to read, however it was not very specific and was written in favor of the home seller. Today’s real estate contract is very specific to many aspects of the transaction, discussing the terms of the agreement as well as contingencies, notices and disclosures.
To make matters more confusing, there are two contracts in use in our area. The MAR contract is provided by the Maryland Association of Realtors and the Regional Contract is offered by the Greater Capital Association of realtors. Up until recently, there were major differences between the two contracts. Attempts for parity have been helpful, however differences continue. You should consult with your Realtor to determine which contract would benefit your situation.
As hard as it may be to read through the contract and understand its terminology, can you depend on your Realtor to explain it to you correctly? Both contracts along with addendums undergo constant change requiring Realtors to re-familiarize themselves with the documents. Because of this, it is common for even a seasoned Realtor to get tripped up.
When presented with a listing agreement and/or a purchase contract, your Realtor should explicitly explain the meaning of each clause so as you understand it. It is a good idea to even consult an attorney.
Today’s real estate contract specifies the rights and responsibilities of each party. Additionally, the contract defines default, discusses recourse and hiring an attorney. The MAR contract requires you to attempt meditation prior to going to court.
Additionally, you may find that there are many additional disclosures that are part of the contract. Contrary to belief, these addenda are not filler paper; many of these disclosures ensure you understand your rights as a home buyer or home seller.
For example, many home buyers don’t know that they have the right to review condo and HOA docs. You have seven days to review condo docs and five days to review HOA docs. If you find that there is anything in the docs that is not acceptable, you can declare the contract null and void.
Why should you understand the contract? Believe it or not the real estate contract survives even after settlement. This is an important concept as it is mistakenly thought that once settlement occurs there is no recourse. Disputes can arise after settlement if the home seller decides to take items they were supposed to leave in the home, or if there were misrepresentations in property condition.
A real estate contract is not to be taken lightly as there are consequences to any breach of this contract. Make sure you understand your rights and any responsibilities, and if in doubt-consult an attorney.
This column is not intended to provide nor should it be relied upon for legal and financial advice. This article was originally published in the Montgomery County Sentinel the week of April 9, 2007. Copyright © 2007 Dan Krell.