Sell My House - Get the Offer on Paper

There’s no such thing as a handshake deal in real estate. Make sure you have something in writing before they leave the house.

You have all the necessary documents ready thanks to your preparation with the lawyer. You’ve discussed the price and negotiated what stays. Now you can ask what down payment they have ready or when they think it will be ready.

Walk them through the contract, explaining to them as your lawyer did for you. Fill in any subjects (you will review this information under the chapter on legal information) and discuss the deposit.

Never take cash for a deposit. Have the buyer make the check out to your lawyer which will be deposited into an escrow account. This will assure them that you will not have access to their money until the contract is settled. If the contract falls through, the lawyer will refund the money or give back the original check.

The deposit is to ensure the purchaser’s intention to go through with the contract. Taking a deposit is not required legally, but if it’s in the contract the buyer must provide it. You will have a lawyer to assist you if anyone backs out, but obviously that is not your first choice.

Booking Appointments
Having an Open House
Final Preparation
Financial Assistance
What Not to Do
Dealing with Negative Comments
How to Talk to Prospects
Negotiating
Getting the Offer on Paper
How Much Should the Deposit Be