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Cancelling Real Estate Contract before Closing

Cancelling a Real Estate Contract Before Closing: What You Need to Know

Purchasing a home is an exciting and life-changing experience, but sometimes things do not always go as planned. You may find yourself in a situation where you need to cancel a real estate contract before closing. Cancelling a contract is never an easy decision, but it is important to know your rights and obligations as a homebuyer. In this article, we discuss the steps you must take to cancel a real estate contract before closing.

Reasons for Cancelling a Real Estate Contract

There are several reasons why a homebuyer may need to cancel a real estate contract before closing. Some common reasons include:

1. Failure to secure financing: If you are unable to secure financing to purchase the home, you may need to cancel the contract.

2. Inspection issues: If the inspection reveals issues that require costly repairs, you may decide to cancel the contract.

3. Appraisal issues: If the appraisal comes in lower than the agreed-upon purchase price, you may need to renegotiate or cancel the contract.

4. Change in circumstances: Personal circumstances can change unexpectedly, making it difficult to follow through with the purchase.

Steps to Cancel a Real Estate Contract Before Closing

1. Review the contract: The first step is to review the contract and determine if there are any clauses that provide for termination or cancellation of the contract.

2. Notify the seller: You must notify the seller as soon as possible that you wish to cancel the contract.

3. Provide a reason: In most cases, you will need to provide a reason for cancelling the contract.

4. Follow the contract terms: The contract will dictate the terms for cancellation, including any deadlines or penalties.

5. Obtain legal advice: It is always best to obtain legal advice before cancelling a real estate contract.

6. Consider a settlement agreement: If you and the seller agree to cancel the contract, you may need to sign a settlement agreement.

7. Get it in writing: Make sure all cancellations are in writing to avoid any future disputes.

Consequences of Cancelling a Real Estate Contract

Cancelling a real estate contract before closing can have some consequences. Depending on the terms of the contract, you may be required to forfeit your deposit or pay penalties. You may also lose any expenses incurred during the home buying process, such as inspection fees or appraisals. Additionally, cancelling a contract can impact your credit if you have already secured financing.

Conclusion

Cancelling a real estate contract before closing is not an easy decision, but it may be necessary in certain circumstances. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to review the contract, notify the seller, and follow the contract terms. Obtaining legal advice and having all cancellations in writing can help avoid any future disputes. Remember that cancelling a contract can have consequences, so it is important to weigh all the options carefully.