8 March 2025
Real estate contracts might look like a maze of legal jargon, but they’re a critical part of buying or selling property. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, selling a commercial property, or investing in real estate, reviewing the contract before you sign it can save you from a ton of headaches down the road. Sure, you probably just want to skim through and focus on the big numbers—but trust me, the devil is in the details. So, let’s break it down and talk about what you need to look for before you put pen to paper.
Why Reading the Fine Print Matters
Let’s be real—contracts aren’t exactly a page-turner. But they’re legally binding documents, and once you sign, you’re locked into the terms. Imagine it like this: signing a contract without reading it is like jumping into a pool without knowing if it’s shallow or deep. You don’t want to hit rock bottom because you didn’t take a closer look.A poorly written or misunderstood contract can lead to unexpected fees, delays, or even legal disputes. So, before you dive in, let’s go over the key things you need to watch out for. 
Key Sections to Review in a Real Estate Contract
Real estate contracts can vary, but most include a few key sections that you’ll want to focus on. Let’s break it down, step by step:1. Purchaser and Seller Information
This might seem obvious, but double-checking the names and details of both parties is essential. The contract should clearly state who’s buying and who’s selling. Spelling errors or omissions here can create issues later. You don’t want the wrong name on the deed!2. Property Description
Make sure the property being sold is described accurately. The legal description might include lot numbers, boundaries, or other specifics that aren’t immediately clear to the average buyer. Compare this section with the listing details or title documents to ensure it’s all accurate. If there’s a mistake, you could end up with something that’s not what you expected—or even with legal disputes over ownership.> Pro Tip: If the description includes terms you don’t understand, ask for clarification. Don’t just nod your head and hope for the best.
3. Purchase Price and Payment Terms
Ah, the money talk. This section outlines how much you’ll pay (or receive if you’re the seller) and when. Does the number match what you agreed on verbally? If not, raise your eyebrows and raise the issue.Also, check for:
- Earnest money deposits
- Down payment amounts
- Loan contingencies
If there’s financing involved, make sure you understand the terms and deadlines. Missing a financing deadline could cost you the deal—or your deposit.
4. Contingencies
Probably one of the most important parts of the contract! Contingencies are the "get out of jail free cards" in a real estate deal. They allow either party to back out under certain conditions. Some common contingencies include:- Inspection Contingency: Gives you time to inspect the property and request repairs or negotiate based on findings.
- Appraisal Contingency: Ensures the property is worth what you’re paying.
- Financing Contingency: Protects you if your mortgage falls through.
Without these contingencies, you could be vulnerable to losing your deposit if something goes wrong.
5. Closing Date and Possession Terms
The contract should clearly spell out when the deal will be finalized (the closing date) and when you’ll get possession of the property. Some contracts allow for early possession or post-closing rent-back agreements for the seller. Pay attention to these terms—timing is everything in real estate deals.If anything looks too rushed or overly delayed, flag it immediately. You don’t want unexpected timeline changes throwing off your plans.
6. Disclosure Statements
Sellers are usually required to disclose certain issues about the property, ranging from structural problems to environmental hazards. While these might not always be included in the main contract, there should be a reference to required disclosures. Read through them carefully, because the last thing you want is to find out your dream home has a termite infestation.> Quick Analogy: Think of disclosures like a car’s Carfax report. You wouldn’t buy a used car without checking its history, right? The same goes for real estate.
7. Default Terms and Penalties
This section outlines what happens if either party breaches the contract. Will you lose your earnest money? Will the seller have to pay damages? Nobody signs a contract expecting things to go wrong, but life happens. Knowing how the default terms work can save you from unpleasant surprises.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Even if you’re paying close attention, some sneaky issues can slip under the radar. Here are a few red flags to watch for:- Ambiguous Terms: The contract should be specific. Vague language like “to be determined” or “reasonable effort” can lead to disputes.
- Unrealistic Deadlines: If the timeline seems too tight, speak up. You might not get everything finalized in time.
- Missing Addendums or Attachments: If something was agreed on verbally, make sure it’s included in writing. A handshake agreement won’t hold up in court. 
Should You Hire a Real Estate Attorney?
If all of this seems overwhelming, you’re not alone. Real estate contracts are complicated, and even seasoned buyers and sellers can struggle to understand them fully. That’s where a real estate attorney comes in handy.Think of an attorney as your personal safety net. They’ll help you spot potential issues, explain confusing clauses, and negotiate better terms on your behalf. While hiring an attorney adds to your costs upfront, it’s often worth it to avoid costly mistakes later.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Rush It
Here’s the bottom line: take your time. Yes, there might be pressure to sign quickly—the seller wants to move on, your agent wants to close the deal, and you’re eager to get things done. But rushing through a real estate contract is like driving blindfolded. Slow down, read every word, and ask questions if something doesn’t make sense.Signing a contract is the final step in a long journey, but it’s the one that matters most. Get it right, and you’ll breathe easy knowing you’ve made a solid decision. Ignore it, and you might end up with buyer’s remorse—or worse.
