What Does “Under Contract” Mean in Real Estate?

Real Estate signing contract

Ever seen a property listing labeled “under contract” and wondered what it means for buyers and sellers? This term, while commonplace in real estate, often leaves many puzzled about its implications.

Defintion of “Under Contract” in Real Estate

In real estate, “under contract” means that a seller has accepted an offer from a buyer, but the sale is not yet final. The buyer and seller have signed a purchase agreement, which includes contingencies that must be met before the sale can close.

These contingencies typically include financing, appraisal, home inspection, and home sale contingencies. If all contingencies are met, the sale will proceed to the “pending” stage, where the final preparations are made for the transfer of ownership. If any contingency is not met, the buyer can walk away from the deal without losing their deposit.

What’s the difference between pending and under contract?

The terms “pending” and “under contract” are often used interchangeably, but they represent different stages in the real estate transaction process.

A property is pending when all the conditions of the sale have been met, and the transaction is close to completion.

Does “Under Contract” exists in Dubai Real Estate?

In the context of real estate contracts in Dubai and the UAE, “under contract” means that a seller has accepted a buyer’s offer, and a purchase agreement has been signed by both parties. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the sale, including the price, payment schedules, and any contingencies that must be met before the sale can be finalized.

Where are terms and conditions defined in Dubai Real Estate?

In Dubai, the Property Sales Contract (Form F) is a crucial document that outlines the terms and conditions of the sale. It must be signed by both parties and includes details such as the seller’s confirmation of ownership, the buyer’s acceptance of the property’s condition, and the payment terms.

Form-F for Off-Plan purchases from developer

You must sign a Form F when buying a property from a developer in Dubai. Form F, also known as the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), is a standardized contract between the buyer and seller that outlines the terms and conditions of the sale. It is a mandatory document for all real estate transactions in Dubai, including off-plan purchases from developers

Conclusion

Understanding the terminology and processes involved in real estate transactions is essential for buyers and sellers alike. The distinction between “under contract” and “pending” highlights different stages of the transaction, with “under contract” indicating an agreement with contingencies still in place, and “pending” signifying that all conditions have been met, bringing the transaction closer to completion.

In Dubai, the terms and conditions of a sale are clearly defined in the Property Sales Contract (Form F), a vital document that ensures both parties agree on the sale’s specifics. This is true for all transactions, including off-plan purchases from developers, where Form F serves as a Memorandum of Understanding.

By understanding these key concepts and documents, buyers and sellers can navigate the real estate market with greater confidence and clarity, ensuring smoother and more successful transactions.

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