Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Pennsylvania

I am currently going through the home buying process. It has been a bumpy road to say the least. My agent submitted an addendum that the seller declined, but their lawyer sent my agent some terms they want me to agree to. One of them being that o voluntarily forfeit my deposit if we don't make settlement by a specific day. I have done everything they have asked me to do in order to keep this deal a float, what are my options now?


Asked on 9/03/16, 4:48 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

You could consult a lawyer to protect your interests, especially if the seller has lawyer representation. Remember, agents are not lawyers and do not represent your interests. You are not required to agree with everything that the seller is asking for. If the seller is asking for too much, you may be better off walking away.

Generally, if you do not make settlement by an agreed on date, you do lose your deposit. But you should make sure that that is the only penalty, and that the seller cannot also go after you for the complete purchase price or other damages. The best protection is to have an experienced real estate lawyer in your corner.

THIS RESPONSE IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE, SINCE I DO NOT HAVE ALL OF THE INFORMATION THAT WOULD BE REQUIRED, AND I DO NOT HAVE A REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT WITH YOU.

* If the answers to your question confirm that you have a valid issue or worthwhile claim, your next step should almost always be to establish a dialog with a lawyer who can provide specific advice to you. Contact a lawyer in your county or township.

* Another reason for contacting a lawyer is that it is often impossible to give a good answer in the Internet Q&A format without having more information. The unique circumstances of your situation and things that you may not have thought to mention in your question may completely change the answer. If you want to be sure that you have a complete answer to your question and an understanding of what that answer means, establish a connection with a lawyer who practices in the area of your concern.

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Answered on 9/03/16, 7:28 am


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