In today’s housing market, finding a home that you love and can afford isn’t always an easy task, so you’re naturally excited to make a deal on your dream home – until the seller tries to back out of the deal.Sellers sometimes want to cancel a sale simply because they start feeling nostalgic about the family home, while others may decide that they’re not happy with the price they’ve gotten or something else. Other sales fall apart because they’re part of an estate and family members start to squabble or the seller gets word that someone else is willing to give them more for the property than you.Whatever the reason, this can put your dream on hold and frustrate you to no end. Is it even legal for a seller to do this to you?

When there’s a dispute, most situations favor the buyer

In a situation like this, you need to review your contract carefully. While most home purchase contracts contain contingencies, these tend to give the buyer – not the seller – more leeway to break the deal. Typically, this includes the right for the buyer to back out if they can’t get financing, the home doesn’t pass inspection or the home appraisal comes back lower than expected.While less common, however, your contract may give the seller some ability to back out if other contingency clauses are there. For example:

  • There may be a five-day attorney review period during which time the deal can be canceled by either party
  • There may be time limits on you, as the buyer, to get the inspections done and obtain financing which – if you don’t meet them – can give the buyer an “out.”
  • There could be a housing contingency that allows the seller to back out if they cannot find a new home for themselves within a specific time period.

When you’re faced with a complicated and unpleasant situation involving a broken contract, don’t try to handle the situation alone. Experienced legal guidance can help you weather this storm and get your goals back on track. 

Recent Posts

When Are You Required to Show ID to Police in Virginia?

When Are You Required to Show ID to Police in Virginia? Navigating encounters with law enforcement can often be confusing, especially when it comes to understanding your rights and obligations. In Virginia, knowing when you're required to show identification to a...

Navigating Divorce in Fairfax County with the Right Legal Support

Navigating Divorce in Fairfax County with the Right Legal Support Divorce can be an emotionally challenging and complex process, especially if you're navigating it in Fairfax County. Having the right legal support can make a significant difference in the experience...

How Can Grandparents Navigate the New Law for Their Rights?

Navigating new legal landscapes can be daunting, especially when it concerns family dynamics and grandparents' rights. This blog aims to shed light on the new laws affecting grandparents and offer guidance on understanding and exercising these rights effectively....

7 Key Facts About the New Law for Grandparents’ Rights

Navigating family law can be challenging, especially when it involves grandparents seeking rights to maintain meaningful relationships with their grandchildren. Recently, a new law has been introduced to clarify and protect these rights. In this blog, we'll explore...

How a Divorce Attorney Can Protect Your Interests

Navigating a divorce can be one of the most challenging times in your life. Emotions run high, decisions need to be made, and through it all, you want to ensure your interests are safeguarded. This is where a divorce attorney steps in as your guiding ally. In this...

Modifying Child Support Orders: When and How to Request a Change

Does Your Child Support Order No Longer Feel Fair? Parents are expected to contribute equally to the raising of their children. That means that the noncustodial parent often has to make support payments to the custodial parent. These payments are not meant as a...

What Does a Real Estate Attorney Do?

Learn about the roles and responsibilities of a real estate attorney. Find out how they can help with property transactions, disputes, and legal matters.

Categories