Property “as is”

Does a buyer have to accept the property as is?

My client won’t accept the property “as is.” He wants to wait until after the inspection to list specific repairs that he wants the seller to fix. Can I leave both boxes in Paragraph 7D of theOne to Four Family Residential Contract (Resale) blank, or can I check Paragraph 7D(2) and write in “repairs to be listed following inspections”?

Neither. Leaving both boxes blank in Paragraph 7D or altering the contract terms by adding language in Paragraph 7D(2) that does not list specific repairs could be considered to be acting negligently or incompetently if a complaint were to be filed in connection with the transaction.

The buyer should only choose Paragraph 7D(2) if he knows of specific repairs that he wants the seller to complete at the seller’s expense. Otherwise, the buyer should check Paragraph 7D(1).

Most buyers in this situation will also choose to pay a termination-option fee pursuant to Paragraph 23 in exchange for the right to terminate the contract for any reason within a negotiated number of days. During this termination-option period, an inspection can be performed, and if specific repairs are identified, the parties can negotiate to amend the contract to address these items, or the buyer can terminate the contract.

Compliments of Texas Association of Realtors. For more Legal FAQs on TexasRealEstate.com.