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A homebuyer’s personal story from the post-Sitzer, post-settlement world

Housing Wire

As a real estate reporter, it was not lost on me that the formal start of my house hunt would coincide almost perfectly with the real estate industry working through the nationwide implementation of the business practice changes outlined in the National Association of Realtors ‘ (NAR) commission lawsuit settlement agreement.

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7 Common Contingencies in Real Estate That Buyers Should Know

Redfin

In real estate, contingencies are conditions included in a purchase agreement that must be met for the transaction to move forward. Although not required, contingencies are standard in most real estate contracts – and some are especially important depending on where you’re buying.

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Can a Seller Keep the Earnest Money Deposit? Yes – Here’s When

Redfin

It’s designed to show the seller they’re serious about the purchase and typically ranges from 1% to 3% of the purchase price. If a buyer acts outside the bounds of that agreement, even unintentionally, and the deal falls through as a result, it can be considered a breach of contract.

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Can a Buyer Back Out of a Contract? What Sellers Need to Know

Redfin

A question that rattles both sellers’ nerves and real estate professionals’ phones: What happens when a buyer backs out of a home sale? Every real estate transaction carries this tension, and knowing your rights and options is important for a successful sale. Financing: Even with pre-approval, buyers might fail to secure a mortgage.

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What is Due Diligence in Real Estate?

Redfin

You can schedule inspections, review the title, secure an appraisal, and check for any red flags that could affect your decision to buy. During the due diligence period, the buyer is allowed a set amount of time, typically outlined in the purchase agreement, to fully investigate the property before finalizing the sale.

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Earnest Money vs. Due Diligence in Real Estate: Key Distinctions Buyers Should Know

Redfin

After offer acceptance At the start of the due diligence period Purpose Shows buyer commitment and secures the contract Compensates seller for taking property off the market Applied to purchase? Credited toward the purchase price at closing Credited toward the purchase price if sale closes Fee amount 1-3% of the purchase price Often 0.1%

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Can You Get Your Earnest Money Back at Closing?

Redfin

When buying a home, youll likely come across the term earnest money – a deposit that shows the seller youre serious about the purchase. This deposit is usually between 1% and 3% of the homes purchase price, but the amount can vary based on the local market and the agreement between you and the seller. Do you get it back?