Parties
Identify full legal names and contact information for seller, agent, and any designated agent or attorney responsible for the sale.
A clear retainer agreement reduces misunderstandings, sets expectations for fees and deliverables, preserves proof of consent, and creates an enforceable record of the engagement. For sellers, it defines timelines and termination rights; for agents or attorneys, it documents authority to act and collect payment.
Typical users include property owners, listing agents, real estate brokers, and real estate attorneys preparing for a sale.
Each party benefits from written terms that address scope, payment, duration, and authority to execute sale-related documents.
Identify full legal names and contact information for seller, agent, and any designated agent or attorney responsible for the sale.
Describe the services to be performed, including marketing, property showings, negotiation, coordination of inspections, title review, and closing support.
State retainer amount, whether it is refundable, hourly rates if applicable, commission rate, and how retainer credits against closing proceeds.
Specify the agent’s authority to sign listing agreements, accept offers subject to seller approval, and deliver disclosures on the seller’s behalf.
Set the agreement start date, automatic expiry or renewal conditions, termination notice period, and consequences for early termination.
Define governing law, venue, and whether mediation or arbitration is required before litigation.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signer roles and order | Define signer sequence: seller first, agent second, attorney optional. |
| Authentication level | Choose email link, SMS code, or ID verification per transaction sensitivity. |
| Notifications | Enable automated reminders and completion notices to signers and agent. |
| Document retention | Set storage location, retention period, and access permissions. |
Confirm platform capabilities before e-signing to ensure compliance and accessibility.
Choose a platform that supports the required authentication level, audit trail, and secure storage for transaction records.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day trial | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor |
| Bulk Send | Available in premium plans | Available | Available | Available | Varies by plan |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes (BAA) | Yes (BAA) | Yes (BAA) | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
Controls when agent duties and seller obligations begin
Date by which buyer must complete inspections or raise objections
Cutoff for seller to accept or counter an offer
Agreed settlement date for transfer of title
When the agreement expires and requires renewal