For most people, the first time they will ever see a real estate contract is the first time they sit down with an agent to write an offer.  We belive that you benefit by being exposed to the necessary contract documents before you write an offer.  Even if you have purchased or sold real estate before, documents vary from area to area, state to state, and year to year.  Below are links to PDF versions of the most common documents that you will encounter during a real estate purchase.  Also included is a brief explanation of each document.  We hope that you will find these documents not only informative, but helpful as you begin the buying process.   

Exclusive Right to Represent Buyer Agreement--  This document is a written agreement that allows the broker to represent you in the purchase of a property.  Under the agreement, your agent will act as your Buyer's Agent, exclusively representing your interests as a buyer.  The agreement sets forth the responsibilities of both buyer and agent, and also determines the compensation to be paid.

Residential Purchase Contract--  This is the actual purchase contract for a property.  It is the document that you would sign in order to make an offer on a property.  The document is very important, as it sets forth most of the terms and conditions of the purchase transaction.  It should be read carefully and understood.

Vacant Land Purchase Contract--  This is a purchase contract that is written specifically for the purchase of unimproved land.  Although very similar to the Residential Contract to Purchase, this document has clauses in it that are particular to the land transaction.  

Property Disclosure Act--This document is required by law in the Commonwealth of Virgina for any property for sale.  It's purpose is to disclose to prospective purchasers any material defects in a property.  Typically, rather than filling out the entire document, most sellers fill out the final two pages, which constitutes a disclaimer as to the condition of the property.  Purchasers are required to sign the document as well.

Summary of Rights--  This document summarizes all of the rights and obligations of sellers and purchasers under the Property Disclosure Act.

Home Inspection Addendum--  We strongly recommend that you have a home inspection as part of any purchase transaction.  This addendum to the contract sets forth the conditions for the conducting of the home inspection, and the negotiation of potential repairs or monetary credits.  

Agreed Repairs Addendum--  After conducting the home inspection, if a purchaser feels there are items that should be addressed by the seller, this is the document that is used.  It ensures that all the negotiations are on paper so that all parties are aware of what will be repaired or what monetary credits may be given.  

Dual Agency Disclosure--  This document is necessary in the event that the brokerage firm is representing both the seller and purchaser in a transaction.  It ensures that all parties are aware of the relationships, and what everyone's responsibilities are.