Whether it consists of several pages of big type or a few pages of fine print, a real estate purchase agreement is a serious, legally binding document. In most areas, there are "boiler plate" forms that spell out what each party agrees to do by certain dates and what happens if either side breaks the contract.

The best time to familiarize yourself with these forms is when you are beginning your search. Ask the real estate agent for a copy of the purchase agreement and then review it, keeping in mind that it has the force of law. If you don't understand the document, consult an attorney. If there is a dispute between buyer and seller, a court will hold you to what the purchase agreement specifies, not what you thought it meant or what you thought the real estate agent said it meant.

There are several key points you should be clear about. What are the deadlines for loan application and obtaining financing? If you decide to back out because of the structural inspection report, can you do that? Do appliances convey? When will the closing take place? If you understand these clauses before you find the perfect house, you will avoid a lot of stress and minimize the likelihood of misunderstandings.

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Christina Danley
Sotheby's International Realty
200 Clocktower Suite 100D
Carmel, CA 93923
Cell: 831-601-5355
Fax: 831-855-0210
christina.danley@sothebyshomes.com

Christina Danley ranked in the top 5% for all Monterey Peninsula Sotheby's Real Estate Agents in 2009, and top 20% for 2008. Christina has been a broker associate since 1987. Christina earned the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) designation, which distinguishes a higher level of education in real estate and a professional affiliation affording up-to-the-minute industry information and local market knowledge. She is the proud receiver of the John Leo Award, in recognition of top sales volume within the Monterey County Association of Realtors, for 1998. She holds a lifetime limited service credential for California Community Colleges and was honored with the Papa Vince award for excellence in hospitality.