The purchase or sale of a home is one of the most complicated business transactions most people will be involved in during their lifetime. Whether the print is large or small, there is a lot of it! The purchase agreement covers not only the price of the property, but has many paragraphs governing the terms under which it will be conveyed to the new owners.

When you list your home for sale or when you begin your search for a new home, ask your real estate agent for a copy of the standard sales agreement. Familiarize yourself with the document ahead of time, and make certain you understand the responsibilities of both parties between the initial meeting of the minds and the closing date. You should be aware of all of the deadlines in the purchase agreement. Each contract is different, but there are usually time limits covering the structural contingency, the financing application, the loan commitment, and the closing.

You greatly increase the chances of a smooth transaction by being fully informed about the sales contract.

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