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Real Estate Contracts Are you aware that the standard Florida Association of Realtors/Florida Bar Contract, often referred to as the “FAR/BAR Contract” has changed? Below is an overview of the revisions to the FAR/BAR Contract for Sale and Purchase, “AS IS” and other residential forms which were discussed earlier this year and have now become effective as of November 1, 2021.

Major Updates to the Standard Form

Section 8(b) – Loan Approval Period

Two tasks are to be completed during this period now. The first is that the buyer must obtain approval for financing as described in the section. This is consistent with the prior version of the contract. However, the new requirement is that the buyer’s lender must receive a satisfactory appraisal before the approval period expires.Continue Reading Overview of Changes to “FAR/BAR” Contracts Effective November 1, 2021

Typical Troublesome Scenariohome inspection magnified.jpg

You have just found the perfect home and you are ready to sign the purchase offer. Either you failed to fully read the contract or your home state’s laws allow you the right to terminate the contract if you are dissatisfied with the home inspection, so you assume you have the same rights in Florida and happily sign the contract. The home inspection report later reveals problematic issues that prompt you to want to immediately terminate the contract, but you soon learn that the form contract you signed does not afford you with such right. Instead, you are now forced to proceed under a contract to purchase a home you no longer desire.

Florida LawContinue Reading Buyer Beware: How To Avoid Purchasing An Unwanted Home After the Home Inspection