A Florida residential purchase and sale agreement has to include all the important details to be legally binding.
1. The names of the buyer and seller.
Start filling in the document by typing in the full legal name of the person or entity who will be assuming ownership of the residential property (the “buyer”). Then, enter the name of the individual or business who currently owns the asset and intends to transfer it (the “seller”).
2. The date of the contract.
Type in the current date on which both the buyer and seller have agreed to the terms of this residential purchase and sale agreement.
3. The address and legal description of the residential property.
The next task is to provide a physical address for the real estate in question as well as a brief legal description. This will usually include the parcel number assigned to the land by the county.
4. The purchase price.
Be sure to include the full amount that the buyer has agreed to pay for the residential property. This should be listed in numerical form as well as in words. If the purchase agreement sets the details of the purchase of personal property, such as appliances or furniture, be sure to itemize these items and their respective values.
5. The earnest money deposit.
In most cases, the buyer will be required to make a good faith deposit (also known as an “earnest money deposit”) at the time of signing the contract. This is usually in the form of a check or money order made out to the seller. The amount of the deposit should be specified in this section.
6. The closing date.
The date on which the sale will be finalized and the residential property officially transferred to the buyer should be entered next. This is typically 30-60 days from the date of the purchase agreement, but may be sooner or later depending on the situation.
7. The financing contingency clause.
This clause protects the buyer by stating that the sale is contingent on the buyer obtaining financing. If the buyer is unable to secure a loan within a specified period of time, they may back out of the contract without penalty.
8. The home inspection contingency clause.
This clause gives the buyer the right to have the property inspected by a qualified professional prior to closing. If the inspection reveals any problems with the property, the buyer may either renegotiate the purchase price or cancel the contract altogether.
9. The seller’s disclosures.
In Florida, sellers are required to disclose certain information about the property to buyers prior to entering into a contract. This includes information about any known defects or problems with the property, as well as any environmental hazards.
10. The signatures of the buyer and seller.
Both the buyer and seller must sign and date the contract in order for it to be legally binding. It is recommended that each party keep a copy of the signed agreement for their records.