For most people, the first time they will ever see a listing agreement is the first time they sit down with an agent to discuss selling their home.  We belive that you benefit by being exposed to the necessary contract documents before you list your home.  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 sale.  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 selling process.  

Listing Agreement--  The "Exclusive Authorization to Sell" is what most people commonly refer to as a Listing Agreement.  This document is the basis for every listing because it officially gives the broker permission to actively sell your home.  The document sets forth the property to be sold, the price to be sold, and the term of the agreement.  The document also sets forth exactly what the responsibilities of the broker and the seller are to each other during the term of the agreement.  

Residential Purchase Contract--  This is the actual purchase contract for a property.  It is the document that your agent will present to you when you receive an offer on the home.  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 also.

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

Home Inspection Addendum--  The majority of purchasers are going to want to conduct a home inspection as part of the 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.