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Contract for the Sale and Purchase of Real Estate

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CONTRACT FOR THE SALE AND PURCHASE OF REAL ESTATE (NO BROKER)

For good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged,

, “Seller” whether one or more, and

, “Buyer” whether one or more,

do hereby covenant, contract and agree as follows:

1. AGREEMENT TO SALE AND PURCHASE:

Seller agrees to sell, and Buyer agrees to buy from Seller the property described as follows (complete adequately to identify property):

County, Tennessee.

Address:

Legal Description (or see attached exhibit):

As described in attached Exhibit.

Together with the following items, if any: (Strike items to be retained by Seller) curtains and rods, draperies and rods, valances, blinds, window shades, screens, shutters, awnings, wall-to-wall carpeting, mirrors fixed in place, ceiling fans, attic fans, mail boxes, television antennas and satellite dish system with controls and equipment, permanently installed heating and air-conditioning units, window air-conditioning units, built-in security and fire detection equipment, plumbing and lighting fixtures including chandeliers, water softener, stove, built-in kitchen equipment, garage door openers with controls, built-in cleaning equipment, all swimming pool equipment and maintenance accessories, shrubbery, landscaping, permanently installed outdoor cooking equipment, built-in fireplace screens, artificial fireplace logs and all other property owned by Seller and attached to the above described real property except the following property which is not included:

All property sold by this contract is called the "Property."

2. SALES PRICE:

The parties agree to the following sales price:

Amount Amount
Purchase Price $
Earnest Money $
New Loan $
Assumption of Loan $
Seller Financing $
Cash at Closing $
Total (both columns should be equal) $

Both columns should be an equal amount.

If the unpaid principal balance(s) of any assumed loan(s), if any, as of the Closing Date varies from the loan balance(s) stated above, the cash payable at closing will be adjusted by the amount of any variance.

3. FINANCING:

CASH SALE: This contract is not contingent on financing.

OWNER FINANCING: Seller agrees to finance dollars of the purchase price pursuant to a promissory note from Buyer to Seller of $ , bearing % interest per annum, payable over a term of years with even monthly payments, secured by a deed of trust or mortgage lien with the first payment to begin on the day of , 20 .

NEW LOAN OR ASSUMPTION: This contract is contingent on Buyer obtaining financing.

Within days after the effective date of this contract Buyer shall apply for all financing or noteholder's approval of any assumption and make every reasonable effort to obtain financing or assumption approval. If financing or assumption approval is not obtained within days after the effective date hereof, this contract will terminate and the earnest money will be refunded to Buyer.

If Buyer intends to obtain a new loan, the loan will be of the following type:

Conventional VA FHA Other:

4. EARNEST MONEY:

Buyer shall deposit $ as earnest money with upon execution of this contract by both parties.

5. PROPERTY CONDITION:

SELLER’S PROPERTY DISCLOSURE: Pursuant to the Tennessee Residential Property Disclosure Act, a Property Condition Disclosure Statement, or Exclusion, has been received by Buyer. BUYER INITIALS:

SELLER’S DISCLOSURE OF LEAD-BASED PAINT AND LEAD-BASED PAINT HAZARDS is required by Federal law for a residential dwelling constructed prior to 1978. An addendum providing such disclosure is attached is not applicable.

Buyer hereby represents that he has personally inspected and examined the above-mentioned premises and all improvements thereon.

Buyer and Seller agree to the following concerning the condition of the property:

Buyer accepts the property in its "as-is" and present condition.

Buyer may have the property inspected by persons of Buyer's choosing and at Buyer's expense.

If the inspection report reveals defects in the property, Buyer shall notify Seller within days of receipt of the report and may cancel this contract and receive a refund of earnest money, or close this agreement notwithstanding the defects, or Buyer and Seller may renegotiate this contract, in the discretion of Seller. All inspections and notices to Seller shall be complete within days after execution of this agreement.

Buyer accepts the Property in its present condition; provided Seller, at Seller’s expense, shall complete the following repairs and treatment:

Buyer agrees that he will not hold Seller or its representatives responsible or liable for any present or future structural problems or damage to the foundation or slab of said property.

If the subject residential dwelling was constructed prior to 1978, Buyer may conduct a risk assessment or inspection for the presence of lead-based paint and/or lead-based paint hazards, to be completed within days after execution of this agreement.

MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT AND BUILT IN APPLIANCES: All such equipment is sold "as-is" without warranty, or shall be in good working order on the date of closing.

Any repairs needed to mechanical equipment or appliances, if any, shall be the responsibility of Seller Buyer.

UTILITIES:

Water is provided to the property by , Sewer is provided by .

Gas is provided by .

Electricity is provided by .

Other:

The present condition of all utilities is accepted by Buyer.

6. CLOSING:

The closing of the sale will be on or before , unless extended pursuant to the terms hereof.

7. TITLE AND CONVEYANCE:

Seller is to convey title to Buyer by Warranty Deed or and provide Buyer with a Certificate of Title prepared by an attorney, title or abstract company.

8. APPRAISAL, SURVEY AND TERMITE INSPECTION:

Any appraisal of the property shall be the responsibility of Buyer Seller.

A survey is not required required, the cost of which shall be paid by Seller Buyer.

A termite inspection is not required required, the cost of which shall be paid by Seller Buyer.

9. POSSESSION AND TITLE:

Title shall be conveyed to Buyer, if more than one as Joint tenants with rights of survivorship, tenants in common, Other:

10. CLOSING COSTS AND EXPENSES:

Closing Costs Buyer Seller Both*
Attorney Fees
Title Insurance
Title Abstract or Certificate
Property Insurance
Recording Fees
Appraisal
Survey
Termite Inspection
Origination fees
Discount Points
If contingent on rezoning, cost and expenses of rezoning
Other:
All other closing costs

* 50/50 between buyer and seller.

11. PRORATIONS:

Taxes, interest, maintenance fees, assessments, dues and rents will be prorated through the Closing Date.

12. CASUALTY LOSS:

If any part of the Property is damaged or destroyed after the effective date, Seller shall restore the Property as soon as reasonably possible.

13. DEFAULT:

If Buyer fails to comply, Buyer will be in default. If Seller fails to comply, Seller will be in default.

14. ATTORNEY'S FEES:

The prevailing party in any legal proceeding is entitled to recover costs and reasonable attorney’s fees.

15. REPRESENTATIONS:

Seller represents that as of the Closing Date there will be no liens, assessments, or security interests against the Property which will not be satisfied out of the sales proceeds.

16. FEDERAL TAX REQUIREMENT:

If Seller is a "foreign person", Buyer shall withhold from the sales proceeds as required by law.

17. AGREEMENT OF PARTIES:

This contract contains the entire agreement of the parties and cannot be changed except by written agreement.

18. NOTICES:

All notices must be in writing and are effective when mailed, hand-delivered, or transmitted by facsimile as follows:

To Buyer at:

Telephone ( )

Facsimile ( )

To Seller at:

Telephone ( )

Facsimile ( )

19. ASSIGNMENT:

This agreement may not be assigned by Buyer without the consent of Seller.

20. PRIOR AGREEMENTS:

This contract incorporates all prior agreements between the parties and cannot be changed except by written consent.

21. NO BROKER OR AGENTS:

The parties represent that neither party has employed the services of a real estate broker or agent in connection with the property.

22. EMINENT DOMAIN:

If the property is condemned by eminent domain, the Seller and Buyer shall agree to continue the closing or cancel this Contract.

23. OTHER PROVISIONS

24. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE IN THE PERFORMANCE OF THIS AGREEMENT.

25. GOVERNING LAW: This contract shall be governed by the laws of the State of Tennessee.

26. DEADLINE LIST (Optional)

Deadline Date
Loan Application Deadline, if contingent on loan
Loan Commitment Deadline
Buyer(s) Credit Information to Seller
Disapproval of Buyers Credit Deadline
Survey Deadline
Title Objection Deadline
Survey Deadline
Appraisal Deadline
Property Inspection Deadline

Whether or not listed above, deadlines contained in this Contract may be extended informally by a writing signed by the person granting the extension except for the closing date which must be extended by a writing signed by both Seller and Buyer.

EXECUTED the day of , 20 (THE EFFECTIVE DATE).

Buyer

Buyer

Seller

Seller

EXHIBIT FOR DESCRIPTION OR ATTACH SEPARATE DESCRIPTION

RECEIPT

Receipt of Earnest Money is acknowledged.

Signature:

By:

Address

City State Zip Code

Date:

Telephone ( )

Facsimile ( )

Enter text✕

What the Contract for the Sale and Purchase of Real Estate Is

Contract for the Sale and Purchase of Real Estate is a legally binding agreement in which a seller agrees to transfer title to specified property and a buyer agrees to pay an agreed price. The contract sets closing date, purchase price, deposit, financing conditions, inspections, title matters, prorations, and contingencies such as appraisal or loan approval. It allocates risk between parties, defines remedies for breach, and often includes disclosure and warranty provisions required by state law. Parties should ensure the document is complete, signed by authorized representatives, and retained according to record-keeping rules.

Why a Clear Sale and Purchase Contract Matters

A clear Contract for the Sale and Purchase of Real Estate reduces transaction risk by documenting price, contingencies, and closing obligations, improving enforceability and streamlining title and financing steps. Proper completion protects buyer, seller, and their lenders.

Why a Clear Sale and Purchase Contract Matters

Who Routinely Uses This Contract

Typical users include real estate brokers, buyers, sellers, lenders, title companies, and attorneys handling property sale and purchase transactions.

  • Real estate agents and brokers drafting and negotiating contract terms for buyers and sellers.
  • Buyers and sellers who must document price, deposits, inspections, and closing obligations accurately.
  • Lenders, title companies, and closing agents verifying conditions, title issues, and funding instructions.

Use qualified professionals when statutory disclosures, financing contingencies, or title defects require review to reduce legal and financial exposure.

Stepwise Process to Complete the Contract

Follow these steps to complete the Contract for the Sale and Purchase of Real Estate accurately and prepare for closing.

  • 01
    Prepare Parties: Confirm full legal names and authority to sign.
  • 02
    Describe Property: Insert legal description and street address.
  • 03
    Set Terms: Define price, deposit, and contingency deadlines.
  • 04
    Sign & Deliver: Obtain signatures, notarize if required, and distribute copies.

Essential Sections to Include in the Contract

Core sections of the Contract for the Sale and Purchase of Real Estate define terms, contingencies, and obligations to allocate risk and trigger closing steps.

Parties

Identify buyer(s) and seller(s) with full legal names, business entity type if applicable, and authorized signatory. Accuracy prevents post-closing disputes and ensures enforceability against the correct legal parties.

Property Description

Provide legal description or parcel identification, street address, and any included fixtures or exclusions. Avoid vague descriptions; include tax parcel ID to match title records and survey references.

Purchase Price

State total purchase price, earnest money deposit amount and timing, allocation of closing costs, and payment method. Specify credits, prorations, and adjustments for taxes or utilities at closing.

Contingencies

List any financing, appraisal, inspection, or environmental contingencies with deadlines and cure periods. Include procedures for termination and deposit disposition if a contingency is not satisfied.

Title and Closing

Require seller to deliver marketable title, identify required title exceptions, and specify closing date, location, and title company or closing agent handling escrow and recordings.

Representations

Include seller representations on ownership, authority, liens, and compliance with zoning and building codes. State remedies for breaches and disclosure obligations for known material defects.

Required Information and Key Fields at a Glance

Buyer Name: Full legal name exactly as on ID.
Seller Name: Full legal name or business entity.
Property Address: Street address, city, state, ZIP.
Legal Description: Parcel or deed description from title.
Purchase Price: Numeric amount and currency stated.
Signatures: All parties sign and date blocks.

Recommended Online Workflow Settings

Configure an online workflow to assign roles, set signing order, and enforce required fields for consistent execution and auditability.

Workflow Field and Configuration Guide Configuration options and recommended values for each field
Signer Role Assignment and Order Specify signer role and set sequential or parallel order.
Require Fields and Validation Rules Mark names, dates, and amounts required; enable format validation.
Authentication Methods and Access Controls Use email, SMS code, or ID verification as needed.
Audit Trail Capture and Document Storage Enable timestamps, IP logging, and secure archival.

Platform Requirements for Digital Execution

Digital signing works with common document formats and integrates with CRMs, cloud storage, and closing platforms.

  • Formats: PDF, DOCX, and editable forms supported.
  • Integrations: Connects with Salesforce, NetSuite, Google Workspace, and Box.
  • Security: TLS 1.2/1.3 in transit and AES-256 at rest.

Critical Dates to Track in the Contract

Key dates in the Contract for the Sale and Purchase of Real Estate drive contingencies, closing, and funding; track each deadline carefully to avoid forfeiture or default.

Offer Expiration Date:

Date by which seller must accept or reject the offer.

Inspection Period Deadline:

Final date to complete inspections and request repairs.

Financing Contingency End:

Lender approval deadline or buyer's right to terminate.

Closing Date and Time:

Scheduled date for deed transfer, funds exchange, and recording.

Proration and Tax Cutoff:

Date determining prorations for taxes, HOA dues, and utilities.

Penalties and Risks of an Incorrect Contract

Deposit Forfeiture: Failure to close may forfeit earnest money.
Contract Rescission: Unmet contingencies can allow termination.
Legal Liability: Misrepresentations expose parties to damages.
Delayed Closing: Late financing delays transfer and funding.
Title Defects: Unclear title can block recording.
Regulatory Penalties: Failure to comply with disclosures risks fines.

Real-world Examples of Contract Use

These examples show how organizations use the Contract for the Sale and Purchase of Real Estate to speed execution and maintain compliance.

Martin Properties (Tim Martin)

Martin Properties uses the Contract for the Sale and Purchase of Real Estate to close transactions without in-person signings, improving turnaround.

  • Mobile and offline signing options supported.
  • I can process and execute all of these documents online with 100% compliance and built-in security. Whether on mobile or working offline, I can get forms back to their necessary parties efficiently.

Optica Ventures (Brian Fitzgibbons)

Optica Ventures uses the standard contract to simplify customer signings across transactions, reducing coordination overhead for buyers and sellers.

  • Consistent interface improves customer acceptance.
  • The interface is simple and easy-to-use for our team; more importantly, it is just as easy for our customers. This ease supports efficient execution and clearer communications between parties during closings.

FAQs: Common Questions About the Contract

Common questions about execution, enforceability, and electronic signing of the Contract for the Sale and Purchase of Real Estate are answered below.


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