Need Your Purchase Agreement Reviewed?
Buying or selling property is typically a big moment in someone’s life. The purchase agreement outlines the deal, sets the rules, and dictates what happens if things don’t go as planned. Yet many people sign these contracts without fully understanding the fine print. That’s where we come in, as our attorneys bring decades of experience to reviewing real estate purchase agreements, making sure every detail works in your favor.
In Ohio, a purchase agreement must include key details, such as the parties’ names, a detailed property description, the purchase price, and signatures, to be enforceable. Missing a spousal signature could affect dower rights, and vague property descriptions might cause ownership issues. Poorly drafted contingencies can trap buyers or let sellers back out. Attention to these details ensures smooth transactions with more smiles than headaches.
Our attorneys know how to spot these pitfalls before they become problems. We translate the legal jargon into plain English, explain what each clause really means, and make sure that the contract reflects your intentions.
Residential or Commercial, We’ve Got You Covered
The purchase agreement for a family home differs significantly from one for a commercial warehouse. Residential deals in Ohio often rely on standardized forms created by Realtor associations, with built-in sections for inspections, financing, and disclosures. Commercial agreements, on the other hand, are usually custom-built, negotiating everything from environmental assessments to tenant leases.
We know both worlds. For homeowners, we make sure consumer protection laws are followed, disclosures are properly delivered, and inspection rights are preserved. For business owners and investors, we craft or review complex agreements that take into account zoning, environmental risks, and income verification. Whatever the property, we make sure the agreement protects your interests today and holds up tomorrow.
The Clauses That Matter Most
A purchase agreement comprises many parts, but certain key sections are particularly crucial. We focus on financing contingencies to ensure buyers have sufficient time to obtain loans and sellers are protected from potential delays. Inspection provisions are checked so buyers can exit if major defects are found, or sellers aren’t unfairly burdened with repairs. We also verify that earnest money deposits are managed properly and that default remedies are clear.
We also pay attention to what’s not included. Missing timelines, vague promises, or “handshake” side agreements can all lead to disputes. Our job is to put everything important in writing, so there are no surprises down the road.
When Probate Meets Property
Real estate sales often intersect with probate, adding an extra layer of complexity. If property is held in an estate, the executor may need court approval to sell, or the will must specifically grant the power of sale. Heirs and beneficiaries may have rights to consent. Even disclosure rules are different: estate sales are exempt from Ohio’s standard residential property disclosure form.
For these reasons, we often add probate-specific language to purchase agreements. This might include making the sale contingent on probate court approval, clarifying that the executor is selling “as-is,” or adjusting timelines to account for court proceedings. Without this legal expertise, a buyer or seller can find themselves stuck in limbo.
Working With Realtors
Realtors are invaluable for finding buyers, marketing properties, and negotiating the broad strokes of a deal. But Ohio law clearly states agents cannot give legal advice or draft custom contract language. That’s where we step in.
Realtors bring us in when they spot an issue beyond their authority, such as title defects, probate complications, or unusual contract terms. Together, we make sure the transaction closes without unnecessary delays or risks.
Realtors appreciate having us as partners because it means their deals don’t get derailed by problems that require legal solutions. Clients appreciate it because they know every clause has been reviewed by someone who thoroughly understands Ohio real estate law.
Common Red Flags We Catch
Many clients are often surprised at the number of issues hidden in purchase agreements. We’ve seen contracts that don’t specify a closing date, leaving buyers and sellers unsure when things will happen.
Sometimes, agreements lack spousal signatures, which can risk future dower claims. Inspection clauses are often vague, causing confusion. We’ve also made sure of the proper delivery of disclosure forms to protect buyers’ right to rescind under Ohio law.
Spotting these issues before they escalate is what we do best. It saves our clients money and prevents lawsuits.
Why Choose HML Law?
With over 100 years of combined experience, our team is trusted across the greater Toledo area for both probate and real estate matters. What sets us apart is how we leverage those strengths. Many deed and contract issues arise in estate situations, and we are well-equipped to resolve them because probate is one of our core practice areas. At the same time, we’ve guided countless buyers, sellers, and business owners through everyday real estate transactions.
We protect futures, prevent disputes, and keep transactions on track. Our clients walk away knowing their agreements are not only fair but also enforceable.
Let’s Make Your Deal Rock-Solid
If you’re about to sign a purchase agreement, don’t go it alone. Having an experienced Ohio attorney review your contract is one of the smartest investments you can make in a real estate deal. At Heban, Murphree & Lewandowski, LLC, we turn complicated legal documents into clear, actionable plans that safeguard your interests.
Call us to schedule a consultation, or send us a message. Let’s make sure your purchase agreement is airtight, your rights are protected, and your transaction moves forward without a hitch.