Redfin

JULY 21, 2025

These include contractual protections like contingencies, state-specific allowances like the option period, and financial repercussions such as forfeiting earnest money. Home inspection contingency : Allows termination if major issues are found during the inspection.

Earnest money deposit

The Close

JANUARY 16, 2025

The terms of the rent-to-own contract outline the purchase price, the option period (when the tenant can exercise the option to buy), rent premiums, financing terms, and option fees. Order an independent appraisal, perform a property inspection, verify up-to-date property taxes, and check for any liens.

Purchase and sale agreement

Housing Wire

APRIL 13, 2021

Richardson also noted that there have been fewer property inspection waivers issued by Fannie Mae in the last several months, keeping appraisers, inspectors and others in valuation very busy. One thing she does not recommend — unless the buyer is a builder or other very experienced player — is waiving the option period.

Marketing

HomeLight

MARCH 7, 2024

Contingencies: Conditions that must be met for the sale to proceed, such as home inspections, financing approval, and the sale of the buyer’s current home. Unresolved title issues: Encumbrances or disputes related to the property’s title can complicate the sale, prompting buyers to cancel the agreement.

Purchase and sale agreement

HomeLight

MAY 24, 2022

Every home sale has its quirks, but in general, “a cash sale can be turned over in a week to two weeks,” according to Suz Poepke Pohl, owner and escrow agent at Cygneture Title for the past 10 years. Secure title and escrow services: 1 day. Title search: 3 days. Inspections: One week to book; 2 to 4 hours to complete.

Purchase and sale agreement

HomeLight

JULY 31, 2021

Cash investors tend to have access to more capital, resources, and contractors to handle major structural repairs, while traditional buyers are likely to be scared off by an inspection report that flags a faulty foundation. Both parties sign a contract and submit it to a title company. Hot climate.

Investor

HomeLight

MARCH 13, 2023

Once both parties agree on the price, they sign a contract and submit it to a title company (at which point it goes into escrow). The buyer does due diligence during the option period in California, which is typically one to 10 days. I get inspections on big-ticket items like the sewer and the foundation.

Sales